Looking for a delightful way to spice up your Meatless Monday? Dive into the vibrant world of Italian cuisine with our Grilled Portobello Mushroom and Heirloom Tomato Caprese Stack! This stunning dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also makes for a beautiful presentation that will impress your family and friends. With just 25 minutes of preparation and cooking time, you can create a mouthwatering meal that’s packed with fresh flavors and healthy ingredients. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let’s get grilling!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large portobello mushrooms
- 2 heirloom tomatoes, sliced
- 1 ball fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Clean portobello mushrooms by gently wiping with a damp paper towel, removing any dirt. Carefully remove the stems and use a spoon to scrape out the dark gills from the underside of the mushrooms.
- Drizzle mushrooms with olive oil, then season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let them marinate for 5-10 minutes at room temperature to absorb flavors.
- Preheat outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat (approximately 400°F). Ensure grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill portobello mushrooms for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they develop nice char marks and become tender. The mushrooms should release moisture and become slightly soft.
- While mushrooms are grilling, slice fresh mozzarella and heirloom tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Wash and pat dry fresh basil leaves.
- Remove grilled mushrooms from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes to cool slightly.
- Begin assembling the stack by placing one grilled portobello mushroom as the base. Layer alternating slices of mozzarella, heirloom tomato, and fresh basil leaves.
- Repeat layering to create a second stack, finishing with a basil leaf on top.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over and around the stacks, ensuring even distribution.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a final sprinkle of sea salt and cracked black pepper.
- Serve immediately while mushrooms are still warm, enjoying the blend of grilled, fresh, and sweet flavors.
Tips
- Choose the Right Mushrooms: Look for large, firm portobello mushrooms with a smooth surface. Fresh mushrooms will provide the best flavor and texture for your dish.
- Marinate for Flavor: Allow the mushrooms to marinate in olive oil, salt, and pepper for at least 5-10 minutes. This step enhances their flavor and ensures they are well-seasoned before grilling.
- Preheat Your Grill: Whether using an outdoor grill or an indoor grill pan, make sure it’s preheated to medium-high heat (around 400°F) for optimal grilling. This helps achieve those beautiful char marks and a tender texture.
- Watch the Grilling Time: Grill the mushrooms for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, as they should be tender yet still hold their shape.
- Layer Beautifully: When assembling your Caprese stack, alternate the layers of mozzarella, heirloom tomatoes, and basil for a colorful and visually appealing presentation.
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle the balsamic glaze generously, but don’t overdo it. A little goes a long way in enhancing the dish’s flavor without overwhelming the fresh ingredients.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed warm, so serve it right after assembling to savor the delightful combination of grilled mushrooms, creamy mozzarella, and juicy tomatoes.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
