Fried Mozzarella With Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Description
This elegant appetizer features crispy, golden-fried mozzarella slices paired with a vibrant roasted red pepper sauce. The cheese is lightly breaded and pan-fried until crisp on the outside while remaining molten and creamy within. The accompanying sauce blends sweet roasted peppers, briny Kalamata olives, and fresh parsley with a bright hint of lemon and vinegar. It offers a perfect balance of rich, savory cheese and acidic, herbal notes. Ideal for dinner parties or as a sophisticated first course, this dish is quick to assemble and delivers an impressive texture contrast that appeals to both casual diners and food enthusiasts.Directions
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In a small shallow bowl, stir together the bread crumbs, toasted pine nuts, and salt and pepper to taste.
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Prepare three separate shallow bowls: one with flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with the breadcrumb mixture.
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Working with one mozzarella slice at a time, dredge the slice in flour, shaking off any excess.
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Dip the floured slice into the beaten egg, allowing the excess to drip off.
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Coat the egg-washed slice thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, patting gently to ensure adherence.
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Place the coated slices in a single layer on a waxed paper-lined plate. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to set the coating.
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While the mozzarella chills, combine the roasted red peppers, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, cayenne, 1 tablespoon water, and salt and pepper in a blender.
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Blend the sauce until smooth. Transfer to a bowl and stir in the chopped olives and 2 tablespoons of minced parsley.
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Divide the sauce between 4 serving plates.
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In a large heavy skillet, preferably nonstick, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking.
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Carefully place the mozzarella slices in the skillet. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, turning once, until golden brown on both sides.
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Divide the fried mozzarella slices among the prepared plates. Garnish with additional minced parsley and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12 servings
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 25g39%
- Saturated Fat 12g60%
- Cholesterol 100mg34%
- Sodium 450mg19%
- Total Carbohydrate 15g5%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 15g30%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.