Friday, August 29, 2008

Bocconcini, Tomato and Pesto Sandwich


If you prefer, you can substitute low-fat mozzarella cheese for the bocconcini and roasted red pepper (capsicum) for the sun-dried tomatoes in this delicious Italian-style sandwich. Recipe makes 4 sandwiches.

Ingredients:

For the Pesto:
1 cup packed fresh basil leaves
1 clove garlic, crushed
1 tablespoon olive oil
Black pepper, to taste
For the Sandwich:
2 loaves (10 inch/25 cm long) French or Italian bread, preferably wholemeal
4 ounces (125 g) sun-dried tomatoes, blanched and patted dry on paper towels
8 ounces (250 g) bocconcini or low-fat mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced

Method:

1. To prepare the pesto, combine the basil, garlic, oil and pepper in a food processor or blender. Blend for about 40 seconds or until smooth.
2. Cut each bread loaf in half horizontally. Spread each bottom slice with half of the pesto; top with half of the tomatoes and mozzarella cheese. Cover with the top slice of the load and cut in half.

Caramelized Sweet Potato

These rich and crunchy sweet potatoes will soon become one of the family's favorite side dishes. Recipe serves 4-6.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pound (750 g) white sweet potato
1 ounce (30 g) butter
3 ounces (90 g) brown sugar
1 teaspoon grated orange zest

Method:

1. Peel potatoes and boil in water until almost cooked. Drain and cut into quarters.
2. Melt butter in a large fry pan. Add sweet potatoes and sprinkle with the sugar and orange zest. Coat the potatoes and cook for about 7 minutes. In this time the sugar should dissolve and melt and form a crunchy coating over the potatoes.
3. Transfer to a serving dish and serve.