Spiedini alla Romana is a beloved Italian appetizer embodying Roman cuisine’s rustic charm and robust flavours. This dish features skewers made from alternating layers of mozzarella cheese and flavorful anchovy fillets interspersed with slices of day-old bread. Each skewer is drenched in olive oil before being broiled or grilled until the cheese melts and the bread achieves a crispy, golden-brown texture. The result is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes—oozing cheese, crisp bread, and the salty bite of anchovies—that pays homage to traditional Roman cooking techniques.
Ingredients Needed for Spiedini alla Romana Recipe
To create the perfect Spiedini alla Romana, key ingredients work harmoniously to deliver exceptional taste. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Crusty Italian Bread: Opt for a sturdy, day-old Italian loaf that can absorb flavours without becoming too soggy.
- Cheese: Mozzarella and Fontina are popular choices for their creamy texture and ability to melt beautifully.
- Olive Oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavours and adds a rich, aromatic touch.
- Herbs: Fresh basil and oregano provide a fragrant herbal note that elevates the dish.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for a hint of savoury depth.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings to taste.
These ingredients combine to create a simple and elegant dish, capturing the essence of Italian cuisine.
Preparing the Perfect Orlando Italian Spiedini alla Romana
Step-by-Step Guide
To prepare this mouthwatering appetizer, follow the steps below to achieve the best results.
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Slice the Bread: Cut the day-old crusty Italian bread into 1-inch thick slices.
- Cut the Cheese: Slice mozzarella and Fontina cheese into similar-sized pieces, ensuring even distribution on the skewers.
- Mince the Garlic: Finely mince a few cloves of garlic to add depth of flavour.
- Assemble the Skewers:
- Thread the Ingredients: Alternate between slices of bread, mozzarella, Fontina, and anchovy fillets on the skewers.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Tuck in small basil and oregano leaves between the layers for freshness.
- Season and Oil:
- Season to Taste: Lightly sprinkle salt and freshly cracked pepper over the assembled skewers.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil: Generously coat each skewer with extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavours flavours and help achieve a golden crust.
- Cook the Skewers:
- Preheat the Grill or Broiler: Heat the grill or broiler to a medium-high setting.
- Grill Until Golden: Cook the skewers for approximately 4-6 minutes per side or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted to a golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Plate the Skewers: Arrange the cooked skewers on a serving platter.
- Garnish as Desired: Optionally, garnish with additional fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Pair with Wines: Serve with a selection of wines that complement the dish’s flavours, such as a crisp Pinot Grigio or a full-bodied Chianti.
By following these steps, you’ll create a delectable and authentic Spiedini alla Romana that transports the flavours of Italy to your Orlando table, delighting your guests with its hearty and satisfying taste.
Step-by-Step Orlando Italian Spiedini alla Romano Spiedini alla Romana Recipe
Creating Spiedini alla Romana is a straightforward process. Here’s a detailed recipe to guide you through each step:
Ingredients
- One loaf of crusty Italian bread, cut into cubes.
- 8 oz of mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 8 oz of Fontina cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- Two cloves of garlic, minced
- One tablespoon of fresh basil, chopped
- One tablespoon of fresh oregano, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread:
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the bread cubes and toss until well-coated. Allow them to marinate for 5-10 minutes.
- Skewer the Ingredients:
- Alternate between bread and cheese cubes on skewers, ensuring even distribution.
- Grill the Spiedini:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove from the grill and serve immediately for the best taste experience.
Caloric Information of Spiedini alla Romana Ingredients
Understanding the caloric content of Spiedini alla Romana can help you enjoy this dish as part of a balanced diet. Here is a breakdown of the estimated calories for common ingredients used in this recipe:
| Ingredient | Serving Size | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Whole-Grain Bread | 1 slice | 80 |
| Cheese (Mozzarella) | 1 oz | 85 |
| Olive Oil | 1 tbsp | 120 |
| Prosciutto | 1 slice | 70 |
| Pancetta | 1 slice | 35 |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 1 cup | 25 |
| Bell Peppers | 1 cup | 30 |
| Zucchini | 1 cup | 20 |
These values provide insight into the dish’s nutritional value and can aid in managing dietary goals. Adjust portions and ingredients to suit your dietary needs while enjoying this flavorful classic.
FAQs
What is Spiedini alla Romana?
Spiedini alla Romana is a traditional Italian dish with skewered layers of bread and cheese, typically grilled to perfection. It’s often seasoned with herbs and finished with a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze.
Can I make Spiedini alla Romana vegetarian?
You can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the prosciutto or pancetta. Add grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavour and texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Spiedini alla Romana in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or grill to retain their crispy texture without making them soggy.
What is the best cheese to use for Spiedini alla Romana?
While mozzarella is famous, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone or gorgonzola for varied flavour flavour profiles. Choose a cheese that melts well and complements the other ingredients.
Can I prepare Spiedini alla Romana in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the skewers a few hours ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to grill, saving time for entertaining guests.
Are there any wine-pairing recommendations?
Spiedini alla Romana pairs well with light, crisp white wines such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. Try a Chianti or a light Pinot Noir if you prefer red wine.
