Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Introduction

Caprese-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms bring together the classic flavors of Italian cuisine with the earthy, hearty taste of Portobello mushrooms. This low-carb, vegetarian-friendly meal is both simple and elegant, perfect for a light lunch, appetizer, or main course. With a flavor combination of rich garlic butter, creamy mozzarella, juicy grape tomatoes, and fresh basil finished with a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze, this dish delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can serve these stuffed mushrooms as a starter for a dinner party, a light lunch paired with a salad, or even a hearty main course when served with a side of quinoa.

Beyond its taste appeal, these mushrooms are healthy, filling, and can be prepped ahead for convenience. Whether you’re a mushroom enthusiast or a caprese salad lover, you’re sure to find this recipe irresistible.

What Are Caprese-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms?

In essence, Caprese-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms are an innovative fusion of traditional Caprese salad and stuffed mushrooms. The classic Caprese salad consists of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This dish combines those iconic flavors and stuffs them into hearty Portobello mushrooms.

Brief History and Culinary Background

• Caprese salad has its roots on the island of Capri, off the coast of Italy.
• It is known for its simplicity, using just a few fresh ingredients to create a delicious and refreshing dish.
• Stuffed mushrooms, on the other hand, have a history dating back to the 19th century in French cuisine.

Traditional Caprese Ingredients Combined with Mushrooms

By incorporating the traditional Caprese ingredients into Portobello mushrooms, you create a meal that is:

• Rich in umami flavors due to the Portobellos
• Creamy and tangy from the mozzarella and balsamic glaze
• Fresh and aromatic with basil and tomatoes

Key Ingredients Breakdown

• Portobello Mushrooms: Large and sturdy, perfect for stuffing.
• Fresh Mozzarella: Melts beautifully, offering a mild and creamy flavor.
• Grape Tomatoes: Provide a juicy sweetness.
• Fresh Basil: Adds an aromatic freshness.
• Balsamic Glaze: Offers a tangy, sweet finish.

Stay tuned for more tips, including the preparation process, serving suggestions, and storage guidelines, to help you perfect this delectable dish.

Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms: A Low-Carb Delight

Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms offer a flavorful combination of creamy mozzarella, juicy grape tomatoes, and fresh basil, finished with a savory drizzle of balsamic glaze. This recipe is low-carb and healthy, making it a perfect choice for lunch, dinner, or a satisfying snack.

Ingredients You Will Need

• Garlic Butter
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
• Mushrooms
  • 5-6 large Portobello Mushrooms, stems removed, washed, and dried
  • 5-6 fresh mozzarella cheese balls, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup grape tomatoes, thinly sliced
  • Fresh basil, shredded for garnish
• Balsamic Glaze (or store-bought)
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons brown sugar (optional)

Instructions

Preparing the Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

1. Preheat: Preheat your oven to broil/grill settings on high and position the oven shelf in the middle.
2. Garlic Butter: In a small saucepan (or microwave-safe bowl), combine the garlic butter ingredients and melt until garlic is fragrant.
3. Mushroom Prep: Brush the bottoms of each mushroom with garlic butter and place them buttered side down on a baking tray. Flip, then brush the remaining garlic butter inside each cap.
4. Stuffing: Fill each mushroom with mozzarella slices and tomato slices. Broil/grill until the cheese is melted and golden (about 8 minutes).

Serving

• Garnish with shredded basil, drizzle with balsamic glaze, and sprinkle with salt to taste.

Making the Balsamic Glaze (if not store-bought)

1. Combine brown sugar (if using) and balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over high heat.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 5-8 minutes until the mixture thickens into a glaze. Without sugar, allow to simmer for 12-15 minutes.

Note: Thoroughly dry the Portobello mushrooms to prevent excess moisture during cooking. Gently squeeze each mushroom with a paper towel to remove any residual liquid.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 101kcal
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Sodium: 58mg
• Potassium: 377mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 10g
• Vitamin A: 225IU
• Vitamin C: 2.4mg
• Calcium: 16mg
• Iron: 0.5mg

The simple preparation of these Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms ensures a quick yet delightful meal that fits a healthy lifestyle. Enjoy these mushrooms as a main course or share them as appetizers with your guests!

Serving Suggestions for Caprese-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

The versatility of Caprese-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms makes them suitable for any occasion, whether as an appetizer or a main course. Here are some suggestions to elevate this dish:

Pairing Options:

• Salads: Add these stuffed mushrooms to a bed of arugula or mixed greens with a simple vinaigrette to complement the flavors and provide a fresh, crisp contrast.
• Quinoa: Serve alongside quinoa seasoned with herbs for a hearty and nutritious meal.
• Grilled Bread: The garlicky, buttery mushrooms pair perfectly with toasted or grilled bread like crostini or baguette slices. It’s a wonderful combination when served as an appetizer or a light lunch.

Serving as an Appetizer vs. Main Course:

• Appetizer: Prepare smaller portions by using baby portobello or cremini mushrooms. Pair these bite-sized delights with other appetizers, like stuffed peppers or a vegetable platter.
• Main Course: Opt for large Portobello caps to create filling entrees. Pair them with a side of grilled vegetables or grains to provide extra substance. Check out the variations on LaaLoosh’s Caprese-Stuffed Portobellos Recipe for more inspiration.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can serve Caprese-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms in a way that suits any dining experience!

Tips for Perfect Caprese-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Creating the perfect Caprese-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms requires a few strategic steps to ensure the mushrooms remain firm and flavorful. Here are some essential tips:

Preventing Mushrooms from Becoming Soggy

• Thorough Drying: Portobello mushrooms naturally hold moisture, which can lead to sogginess. After cleaning, pat them thoroughly with a dry paper towel to remove excess water.
• Season and Broil: Before stuffing, brush the mushrooms with olive oil or garlic butter and broil them for a few minutes. This will reduce moisture and enhance their flavor.
• Avoid Overstuffing: Don’t overload the mushroom caps with tomatoes or mozzarella, as it can increase water release during cooking.

Strategies for Pre-Stuffing

• Make Ahead: Assemble the mushrooms up to two days in advance. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate.
• Temperature Adjustment: Before baking, remove pre-stuffed mushrooms from the fridge 30 minutes prior to cooking to let them come to room temperature.

Making Your Own Balsamic Glaze or Choosing Store-Bought

• DIY Balsamic Glaze: Combine 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar with 2 teaspoons of brown sugar in a saucepan. Simmer until it thickens into a glaze. If you prefer a sugar-free version, simply reduce the vinegar for 12-15 minutes.
• Store-Bought: For convenience, choose a high-quality, ready-made balsamic glaze. It adds a sweet, tangy finish to the stuffed mushrooms.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy perfectly baked, flavor-packed Caprese-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines for Caprese-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Proper storage and reheating are crucial for enjoying Caprese-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms at their best.

Refrigerating and Freezing

• Refrigeration: Once cooked, let the stuffed mushrooms cool to room temperature. Transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, prepare and assemble the mushrooms without baking. Store them in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before cooking.

Reheating Methods

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange mushrooms on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent drying.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe dish and heat at medium power for 2-3 minutes. For even reheating, turn them halfway through the process.
• Stovetop: Cover a skillet with a lid, and warm on low heat for 5-7 minutes.

By following these guidelines, you can savor your Caprese-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms just as deliciously as the day they were made!

FAQs About Caprese-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Q1. Can I pre-stuff mushrooms?

• Answer: Yes, you can pre-stuff Portobello mushrooms. Assemble them up to two days ahead, cover them with plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator. Bring them to room temperature before baking for the best results.

Q2. Can I freeze stuffed mushrooms?

• Answer: Yes, stuffed mushrooms can be frozen. Prepare them fully, but avoid baking before freezing. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking, then bake as usual.

Q3. Do I have to use garlic butter?

• Answer: Garlic butter adds a rich, savory flavor to Caprese-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms, but you can use regular butter or olive oil instead. The garlic enhances the umami taste of the mushrooms, making it a key ingredient.

Q4. Is balsamic glaze necessary?

• Answer: While the balsamic glaze provides a sweet, tangy finish, it’s optional. You can omit it for a low-carb or keto-friendly version, or replace it with a different sauce, such as pesto or marinara.

Q5. Can I substitute regular tomatoes for grape tomatoes?

• Answer: Absolutely, you can substitute regular tomatoes for grape tomatoes. Just ensure they’re sliced thinly and deseeded to reduce moisture. Roma tomatoes are an excellent choice due to their firm flesh and flavor.

These answers will help you confidently customize and prepare your ideal Caprese-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Information

Nutritional Data per Serving

Each serving of Caprese-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms provides approximately:

• Calories: 101 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Fat: 5 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugars: 10 g

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

• Portobello Mushrooms:
  • High in B vitamins and minerals like selenium
  • Rich in antioxidants that combat inflammation
  • Low-calorie and low-carb, ideal for weight management
• Tomatoes:
  • Excellent source of lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reduced cancer risk
  • High in vitamin C and potassium, which support immunity and heart health
• Fresh Basil:
  • Contains essential oils that have anti-inflammatory properties
  • Packed with vitamins A, K, and C
• Mozzarella:
  • Provides quality protein and is a good source of calcium
  • Low in sodium compared to other cheeses

Conclusion

Caprese-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms offer a delicious and healthy way to enjoy the classic Caprese flavors. With their simple preparation and endless variation possibilities, this dish is perfect for any meal. Try experimenting with different types of tomatoes or adding herbs like parsley or oregano.

Embrace the flavor-packed versatility of these low-carb stuffed mushrooms, and enjoy a meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying!

Print