Cheese Specials
A flavorful cheese-topped tomato dish featuring melted Provolone on toasted Italian bread, perfect for a quick snack or light meal with fresh herbs and savory seasoning.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, melt 1/2 stick of butter.
- Slice ripe tomatoes to desired thickness and spread them out in the saucepan.
- Sprinkle the tomatoes with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and herbs as desired.
- Turn the tomatoes and sprinkle with additional spices if desired.
- Place slices of Provolone cheese on top of the sautéed tomatoes.
- Wait until the cheese melts.
- Serve the cheese-topped tomatoes on fresh or toasted Italian bread or rolls.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the tomatoes while they cook. If you don't have Provolone cheese, mozzarella or fontina can be great substitutes. You can also experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different twist. If you prefer a crunchier texture, try broiling the cheese-topped tomatoes briefly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese-topped tomatoes make a delightful appetizer or a light meal. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or pair them with a bowl of Italian soup for a hearty dinner. They also pair beautifully with Basic Egg Pasta(Pasta All' Uovo) for a fulfilling combination. Garnish with extra fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cheese-topped tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but this may affect the texture of the cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Specials contains roughly 31 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 514mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
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 use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
While fresh ripe tomatoes yield the best flavor and texture, you can use canned tomatoes in a pinch. Drain them well and adjust the seasonings, as canned tomatoes can be more acidic. Sauté them gently to cook off some moisture before adding cheese.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this dish vegan, substitute the Provolone cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative. Use vegan butter instead of regular butter, and ensure your bread is dairy-free. You can also enhance the flavors with nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy.
What can I serve with these cheese-topped tomatoes?
These cheese-topped tomatoes are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Consider pairing them with a mixed green salad, grilled vegetables, or even a side of Garlic Bread. They also make a great topping for crostini or as a filling for sandwiches.
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).