Provolone cheese is a creamy, dreamy delight that elevates any dish to new heights! Imagine a luscious, melted layer of provolone enveloping tender grilled vegetables and zesty roasted red peppers, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. This recipe brings together the richness of provolone with a hint of garlic and fresh basil, all nestled in a warm, crusty bread. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a delightful appetizer, this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more of that irresistible cheesy goodness!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Provolone cheese adds a creamy richness that elevates any dish.
- Its versatile flavor pairs beautifully with both savory and sweet ingredients.
- Easy to melt, it creates a delightful gooey texture in your meals.
- Perfect for sandwiches, pizzas, or as a standalone snack.
- Enjoy the unique taste that sets your recipes apart from the ordinary.
provolone cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Collect provolone cheese, your choice of pasta, olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs, and vegetables.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in your favorite chopped vegetables. Cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine the flavors.
- Sprinkle shredded provolone cheese over the pasta. Stir gently until the cheese melts and creates a creamy sauce.
- Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy provolone delight!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Cheese Dish |
| Cuisine: | Italian |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 20 minutes |
| Total Time: | 35 minutes |
| Dietary: | Vegetarian |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | Warm |
Ingredients
- Provolone cheese – a creamy, flavorful cheese that melts beautifully in dishes.
- Olive oil – enhances flavor and helps in cooking without sticking.
- Garlic – adds a robust aroma and depth to your recipes.
- Fresh herbs – like basil or oregano, for a burst of freshness and color.
- Tomatoes – provide sweetness and acidity, balancing the richness of cheese.
- Bell peppers – add crunch and a sweet flavor that complements provolone.
- Onions – bring sweetness and depth when sautéed or caramelized.
- Black pepper – a simple seasoning that enhances all the flavors.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to whip up something delicious with provolone cheese! Follow these simple steps to create a creamy delight that will elevate any dish.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect provolone cheese, your choice of pasta, olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs, and vegetables.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Stir in your favorite chopped vegetables. Cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Mix in the Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine the flavors.
Step 6: Incorporate Provolone Cheese
Sprinkle shredded provolone cheese over the pasta. Stir gently until the cheese melts and creates a creamy sauce.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy provolone delight!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
•Choose high-quality provolone cheese for the best flavor and creaminess.
•Let the cheese come to room temperature before using it to enhance its meltability.
•Pair provolone with fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a burst of flavor.
•Experiment with different types of provolone, such as mild or sharp, to suit your taste.
•Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and ensure even melting.
How to Serve
- Layer provolone cheese on a fresh caprese salad for a creamy twist.
- Use it in a grilled cheese sandwich for an extra melty experience.
- Top your favorite pizza with provolone for a rich, gooey finish.
- Pair with sliced apples and honey for a sweet and savory snack.
- Incorporate into a pasta dish for a creamy sauce that elevates the meal.
- Serve with roasted vegetables for a deliciously cheesy side.
- Make a charcuterie board featuring provolone alongside nuts and dried fruits.
- Use as a filling in stuffed peppers for a delightful surprise.
- Blend into a creamy dip with herbs for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- Top a burger with provolone for a gourmet touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
• Allow the provolone cheese to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in an airtight container for extra protection.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Freezing
• Cut the provolone cheese into smaller portions.
• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to three months.
Reheating
• Thaw frozen provolone cheese in the refrigerator overnight.
• For dishes, reheat in the oven at a low temperature.
• Use a microwave on low power for quick reheating.
• Avoid overheating to maintain creamy texture.
FAQs
What is provolone cheese and how is it different from other cheeses?
Provolone cheese is an Italian semi-hard cheese made from cow’s milk. It has a smooth texture and a rich, creamy flavor that can vary from mild to sharp, depending on its aging process. Unlike other cheeses, provolone is often used in sandwiches, pasta dishes, and as a melting cheese due to its excellent melting properties.
Can I substitute provolone cheese in recipes?
Absolutely! If you don’t have provolone cheese on hand, you can substitute it with mozzarella for a milder flavor or gouda for a slightly sharper taste. Both options will still provide a creamy texture and work well in various dishes.
How should I store provolone cheese?
To keep provolone cheese fresh, wrap it tightly in wax paper or parchment paper, then place it in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Store it in the refrigerator, where it can last for several weeks. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
What are some easy recipes to use provolone cheese?
Provolone cheese is incredibly versatile! You can use it in a classic Italian sub sandwich, melt it over baked pasta dishes, or add it to a cheese platter with fruits and nuts. It’s also delicious in grilled cheese sandwiches or as a topping for pizzas, adding a delightful creaminess to any meal.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it—provolone cheese is your new best friend in the kitchen! Whether melted over a hearty sandwich or sprinkled on a fresh salad, it brings a creamy delight that’s hard to resist. Remember, cooking should be fun and rewarding, so don’t hesitate to experiment. Enjoy every bite, and let the flavors take you on a delicious journey. Happy cooking!
Hungry for more delicious creations? Browse our site for more recipes and endless inspiration to spark your next culinary adventure!