Cheese, Basil And Tomato Casserole
A fresh, cheesy casserole layered with ripe tomatoes, basil, and crispy croutons, perfect for light lunches or summer dinners with vibrant flavors and easy microwave preparation.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups packaged onion and garlic croutons ⓘ
- 3 medium ripe tomatoes (1 lb.), sliced in 1/4-inch thick rounds ⓘ
- 6 oz. mozzarella cheese, cut in thin slices ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon snipped fresh chives
- freshly ground pepper ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons bottled red wine vinegar and oil dressing ⓘ
Instructions
- Scatter croutons over the bottom of a 9-inch glass pie plate.
- Overlap alternate slices of tomato and mozzarella cheese on top in a circular pattern to cover.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil, snipped fresh chives, and freshly ground pepper.
- Microwave uncovered on High for 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Remove from microwave and spoon red wine vinegar and oil dressing on top.
- Let stand for 5 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, try using homemade croutons instead of packaged ones. You can also substitute the mozzarella with other cheeses like provolone or goat cheese for a different taste. Fresh herbs are key; if you can't find basil, try using oregano or thyme. Don't skip the red wine vinegar and oil dressing as it adds a refreshing tang that balances the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole warm as a delightful side dish or a light main course. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish. This dish also complements Mediterranean recipes well, making it a versatile addition to any dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid overcooking to maintain the texture of the cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese, Basil And Tomato Casserole contains roughly 132 calories, with 9g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (29% of the Daily Value), calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance by assembling all the ingredients and covering it with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply microwave or bake until heated through.
What can I substitute for the croutons?
If you don't have croutons, you can use toasted bread cubes or even crushed crackers as a base. Another great alternative is to use cooked quinoa or couscous for a gluten-free option, which will add a different texture to the dish.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
While fresh tomatoes provide the best flavor and texture, you can substitute canned tomatoes if necessary. Drain them well and consider reducing the amount of liquid dressing to prevent the casserole from becoming too soggy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).