Elevate your dining experience with a delightful twist on a classic salad by trying our "Spring Salad in Frico Cups." These crispy cheese cups are not just a feast for the eyes; they add a savory crunch that perfectly complements the fresh, vibrant flavors of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers. Imagine serving these elegant bites at your next gathering, impressing your guests with both their taste and presentation! Ready to discover how to create this stunning dish that’s as delicious as it is beautiful? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Parmesan or similar)
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup sliced cucumbers
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the frico cups from sticking.
- In a bowl, measure out 1 cup of shredded cheese. Parmesan works best, but you can also use a similar hard cheese if desired.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop small mounds of the shredded cheese onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each mound slightly with the back of the spoon to form small circles.
- Bake the cheese in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the cheese has melted and spread out slightly.
- While the cheese is baking, prepare the salad. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of mixed greens, 1/2 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, and 1/4 cup of sliced cucumbers.
- Drizzle 1/4 cup of balsamic vinaigrette over the salad mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then toss gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Once the cheese has baked and is golden, remove it from the oven. Allow it to cool for a minute or two until it’s just cool enough to handle.
- Using a spatula, carefully lift each cheese circle and drape it over the bottom of a small cup or muffin tin to form a cup shape. Let the cheese cool completely to harden into the cup shape.
- Once the frico cups are cool and firm, carefully remove them from the cups or muffin tin.
- Fill each frico cup with the prepared spring salad, ensuring each cup is generously filled with the greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers.
- Serve immediately as a delightful appetizer or light lunch, garnished with extra balsamic vinaigrette if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cheese: While Parmesan is the classic choice for frico cups, experimenting with other hard cheeses like Pecorino or aged Gouda can add unique flavors to your dish.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cheese as it bakes; you want it to be golden and crispy but not burnt. Every oven is different, so check at the 10-minute mark.
- Shape with Care: When draping the cheese over the cups or muffin tin, work quickly as the cheese will harden as it cools. A silicone spatula can help you maneuver the cheese without breaking it.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables or proteins to your salad. Avocado, radishes, or grilled chicken can make this dish even more satisfying.
- Serve Fresh: For the best texture, fill the frico cups just before serving. This ensures the cheese remains crispy, providing a delightful contrast to the fresh salad.
- Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or a drizzle of extra balsamic vinaigrette can elevate the presentation and flavor of your frico cups.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
