Parmesan Squares
Crispy Parmesan Squares are savory baked snacks featuring toasted bread topped with mayonnaise, onion, and melted Parmesan, perfect for appetizers or parties, offering rich flavor and crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove crust from bread slices and cut each into four pieces.
- Mix mayonnaise with finely chopped onion.
- Spread the mayonnaise mixture on each bread square.
- Place the bread squares on a baking sheet.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese on top.
- Broil until golden brown, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade mayonnaise or adding garlic powder to the mixture. If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or a blend of Italian cheeses. Ensure the bread slices are slightly stale for the best texture, as fresh bread can become too soggy. If you like a bit of spice, add crushed red pepper flakes to the mayonnaise mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These Parmesan squares make a delightful appetizer or snack, perfect for gatherings. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or as part of a cheese platter. They pair beautifully with Orange Jelled Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier option, consider serving them with a warm bowl of soup or chili.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Parmesan squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parmesan Squares contains roughly 622 calories, with 13g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 724mg per serving (31% 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 make these Parmesan squares ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the squares in advance by assembling them and placing them on a baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply broil them for a few minutes until golden brown.
What types of bread work best for this recipe?
Stale bread works best for Parmesan squares as it holds up better to the toppings. You can use white bread, sourdough, or even whole grain. Just avoid fresh bread, as it can become too soft when broiled.
Can I add other toppings to the squares?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding toppings like chopped herbs, cooked bacon bits, or diced tomatoes on top of the Parmesan cheese before broiling. These additions can elevate the flavor and make the dish even more enjoyable.
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).