Despite the fact that it’s spring (according to the calendar, at least!) this weather we’re having is certainly making me crave comfort food. Typically by now, I’d be over the soups and pasta dishes I’ve been making all winter. With the recent rainstorms we’ve been experiencing, my body is all confused! While I am longing to be outdoors, I’m stuck inside, and I don’t want to venture far from the couch! What would you say to an appetizer that comforts on a dreary day without weighing you down? (Bathing suit season is right around the corner, after all!) Something you can share with a friend or significant other? Something that is so simple to make, that you won’t have to peel yourself off the couch for long?
Say “yes!” of course!
Who doesn’t love a basic cheese dip? Especially one that has no artificial ingredients?! Fontina is a mild cheese, with a creamy, slightly nutty taste, and often used in fondue, as it melts wonderfully. The assertive pine-like flavor of the rosemary and the subtle, woodsy thyme are the perfect complements to the cheese. Perfect for this crazy weather, this dip certainly falls into the “comfort foods” category.
Baked Fontina
From Ina Garten, as seen on Pennies on a Platter and Pink Parsley
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds Italian Fontina, cubed
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 Tablespoon minced fresh thyme leaves
- 1 Tablespoon minced fresh rosemary leaves
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- crusty bread
Directions
- Preheat the broiler on high. Position top oven rack 6 inches from the broiler.
- Evenly distribute the Fontina cubes in a 12-inch cast-iron skillet or oven safe dish. Drizzle with the olive oil. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic, thyme and rosemary. Sprinkle over the cheese, along with the salt and pepper.
- Broil for 5 to 6 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Serve family style by dipping into it with the crusty bread.
Like what you see? Want more? Liz writes a food blog titled Blog is the New Black, where you can find many more delicious recipes. Original post for this recipe can be found here.
