Caciocavallo literally means cheese on horseback. The name comes more from the look rather than the source because the cheese when purchased looks like saddlebags. It is a type of cheese which has been aged for a minimum of 4 to 6 months and when added with tomatoes it makes a fantastic appetizer or addition to any meal. Your friends will love this treat and is likely something they have never tried before.

Ingredients

Caciocavallo cheese (no substitutes)
Tomatoes (Roma or small sized)
Olive Oil
Fresh Basil

Start by cutting thin squares of cheese which are no larger than the diameter of the tomato you are using. Place the tomato slice directly on the cheese, add a drop of extra virgin olive oil and some fresh basil and that is it. This cheese has a unique texture and is very smooth.

Another easy Italian recipe which can be server as an appetizer. Try sharing it with a glass of red wine. Mangiare!

Raisin Scone and Cheese Scone.

4 C flour
1 tbsp salt
1/2 C sugar
3/4 C tenderflake shortening
1/2 C raisins
3 eggs
 

Milk (add enough until dough reaches a pie dough consistency

Directions
Mix all dry ingredients, add eggs, add milk.

Roll dough out so it is about 1-1/2 inches thick. Cut out using a round cutter (Mamma uses 14 oz pineapple can which has the top and bottom lid removed)

Brush pastry with whipped egg mixture

Bake 15-20 minutes until brown at 350 deg F.

As an alternative replace 1/2 c raisins with shredded cheddar cheese. After brushing you can sprinkle with cheese.

Ingredients
3 cups water
1 1/2 tbsp yeast
1 tbsp salt
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup butter
8-9 cups flour

Toppings
grated cheddar cheese
chopped ham

Directions
Mix all ingredients with exception of toppings into mixing bowl. Let rise for about 30 minutes, depending on your yeast might be longer. Knead and place dough on table and let rise for second 30 minute interval.

Using your rolling pin flatten dough
add ham and cheese to top
roll dough like preparing a cinnamon bun
cut and put on sheet pan
sprinkle cheese on top
let sit for 15 minutes before baking

Bake for 20 minutes until brown at 350 deg F

Variation: substitute ham with spaghetti sauce

Makes about 36 or 3 dozen buns.

This is a very tasty side dish Mamma makes for family dinners. Simple, quick and easy!

Ingredients

• Bag of Mushrooms – Agaricus Mushrooms like a Portabello

• Grated Parmesan Cheese

• Butter

Instructions:  Heat a medium size frying pan, add some butter.  When pan is ready, add sliced mushrooms and cook for approximately 5 minutes.

Sprinkle with parmesan cheese.  Mangiare!!