Caprese Stuffed Garlic Butter Portobellos

Serving Suggestions

Accompaniments and side dishes Caprese Stuffed Garlic Butter Portobellos are versatile enough to serve as a standalone dish or as part of a larger meal. Consider these flavorful pairings to enhance your dining experience:

• Grilled Asparagus: The smokiness of grilled asparagus complements the earthiness of the mushrooms.
• Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with lemon zest and herbs offers a refreshing contrast.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices and garlic butter.
• Roasted Potatoes: Baby potatoes roasted with rosemary can add heartiness to the meal.
• Spinach Salad: A simple spinach salad with a vinaigrette dressing pairs well with the rich flavors of the dish.

For a detailed guide on preparing a perfect salad that pairs wonderfully with this dish, explore different Caprese Salad Variations.

Presentation tips for enhancing visual appeal Presentation is key in elevating the dining experience of Caprese Stuffed Garlic Butter Portobellos:

• Colorful Garnishes: Sprinkle fresh chopped basil or parsley on top to add a pop of color.
• Balsamic Reduction: Drizzle a balsamic reduction in a zigzag pattern over the mushrooms and around the plate for a gourmet touch.
• Cheese Placement: Arrange thin slices of mozzarella neatly within the mushroom caps and allow them to melt perfectly to create a visually appealing texture.
• Serving Platter: Choose a contrasting platter that complements the rich colors of the Portobellos to make the dish stand out on the dining table.

These simple yet effective tips ensure that your Caprese Stuffed Garlic Butter Portobellos not only taste delicious but also look enticing, making every meal a special occasion.

Caprese and Portobello Variations

Different variations of the Caprese concept The classic Caprese—a simple yet sublime combination of mozzarella, tomato, and basil—is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some creative twists:

• Peach Caprese Salad: Swap tomatoes for slices of fresh peaches to introduce a sweet contrast.
• Caprese Skewers: Layer cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves on skewers for a portable, bite-sized treat.
• Caprese Sliders: Mini burgers with a slice of mozzarella and tomato, topped with a basil leaf and balsamic glaze.
• Heirloom Tomato Caprese: Use a variety of heirloom tomatoes for a visually stunning and flavorful update.
• Caprese Pasta Salad: Combine cooked pasta with Caprese ingredients and a light pesto dressing for a fulfilling meal.

For those interested in exploring these variations, find more ideas and recipes at Caprese Salad Variations.

Alternative stuffings for Portobellos Portobello mushrooms, with their large caps and meaty texture, are perfect for stuffing. Here are some alternative ideas:

• Spinach and Ricotta: A rich filling of spinach sautéed with garlic, mixed with ricotta cheese.
• Quinoa and Veggie: A hearty mix of quinoa, bell peppers, onions, and spices, topped with a sprinkle of feta.
• Crabmeat and Herb: Fresh crabmeat combined with breadcrumbs, herbs, and a touch of lemon.
• Eggplant Parmesan: Chopped eggplant sautéed with tomato sauce and parmesan, then baked.
• Mediterranean Couscous: Couscous with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta, seasoned with Mediterranean spices.

These fillings can transform the basic Portobello into a delightful main course or a sophisticated side dish. To get started, a basic balsamic glaze can enhance these variations, and you can learn to make your own with this Basic Balsamic Glaze Recipe.

By experimenting with these variations, you can cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences, making the Caprese and Portobello dishes versatile components of your culinary repertoire.

FAQs (Based on ‘People Also Ask’)

Can I pre-stuff mushrooms? Yes, you can pre-stuff Portobello mushrooms up to a day in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator and bring them to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.

How to freeze and reheat? To freeze, prepare and stuff the mushrooms without baking. Freeze them on a tray and then transfer to airtight containers. Reheat by thawing in the refrigerator overnight and baking as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to ensure they are heated through.

Dietary adaptations (Keto, Gluten-free)

• Keto-Friendly: For a keto adaptation, ensure that all ingredients are low in carbs. Use full-fat mozzarella and replace any breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for texture.
• Gluten-Free: To make gluten-free stuffed Portobellos, avoid any ingredients that may contain gluten like certain brands of balsamic glaze. Opt for gluten-free labels and use fresh or dried herbs for flavor.
• Dairy-Free/Vegan: Substitute mozzarella with dairy-free cheese options or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

For those looking for more information on accommodating special diets, the article on Benefits of Portobello Mushrooms discusses their flexibility and health benefits, making them an excellent choice for various dietary needs.

User Experiences and Tips

Reviews and feedback from users The Caprese Stuffed Garlic Butter Portobellos have received glowing reviews for their robust flavor and satisfying texture. Users appreciate the combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and rich garlic butter, all nestled in a hearty Portobello cap. Many have noted the dish’s versatility, serving it as both an appetizer and a main dish. The ease of preparation is frequently highlighted, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Some have experimented with adding different herbs or cheeses, reporting successful variations that keep the dish exciting.

Tips from experienced cooks Experienced cooks offer several tips to maximize the flavor and presentation of Caprese Stuffed Garlic Butter Portobellos:

• Dry the Mushrooms Well: Ensure Portobellos are thoroughly dried to prevent them from becoming soggy.
• Season Generously: Season the mushroom caps well with salt and pepper before stuffing to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes for the best taste and texture.
• Broil for Finish: Give the stuffed mushrooms a quick broil to get a beautifully melted cheese top.

For more culinary tips and to explore variations of this dish, the resource at Caprese Salad Variations provides a wealth of information that can inspire further creativity in the kitchen.

Caprese Stuffed Garlic Butter Portobellos

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• Author: Wendy Balderas
• Total Time: 18 minutes
• Yield: Serves 5-6 1x

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Description

Delight in the flavors of these Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms, baked in aromatic garlic butter and stuffed with fresh mozzarella cheese and grape tomato slices. This dish is not only low carb and healthy but also ideal for a satisfying lunch, dinner, or as a filling snack.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• Garlic Butter
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
• Mushrooms:
  • 5–6 large Portobello Mushrooms, stem removed, washed and dried thoroughly with a paper towel
  • 5–6 fresh mozzarella cheese balls, sliced thinly
  • 1 cup grape (or cherry) tomatoes, sliced thinly
  • Fresh basil, shredded to garnish
• Balsamic Glaze (or you can use store-bought, or this recipe):
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons brown sugar (OPTIONAL)

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Instructions

Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

1. Preheat oven to grill/broil settings on high heat. Arrange oven shelf to the middle of your oven.
2. Combine all of the Garlic Butter ingredients together in a small saucepan (or microwave-safe bowl), and melt until garlic is fragrant. Brush the bottoms of each mushroom and place them, buttered side down, on a baking tray.
3. Flip and brush any remaining garlic over the insides of each cap. Fill each mushroom with the mozzarella slices and tomatoes, and grill/broil until cheese has melted and golden in colour (about 8 minutes).
4. To serve, top with the basil, drizzle with the balsamic glaze, and sprinkle with salt to taste.

Balsamic Glaze

1. (If making from scratch, prepare while mushrooms are in the oven.) Combine sugar (if using) and vinegar in a small saucepan over high heat and bring to the boil. Reduce heat to low; allow to simmer for 5-8 minutes or until mixture has thickened and reduced to a glaze. (If not using sugar, allow to reduce for 12-15 minutes on low heat).

Notes

• To dry portobellos, make sure you use a dry sheet of paper towel per mushroom, and lightly press the sheet into each mushroom to gently squeeze out the excess liquid. If this step is not done thoroughly, the portobellos will release a lot of liquid during cook time.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling/Broiling
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

• Calories: 101 kcal
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 58mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 12mg