Spanish-inspired Bocadillos with Chorizo and Manchego

Ingredients

• 4 small baguettes 4 small baguettes
• 200g (7 oz) chorizo, thinly sliced 200g (7 oz) chorizo, thinly sliced
• 200g (7 oz) Manchego cheese, thinly sliced 200g (7 oz) Manchego cheese, thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons tomato sauce 4 tablespoons tomato sauce
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories: 450 kcal / 1880 KJ
• Fat: 25g (12g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 35g (2g sugars)
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   Slice the baguettes lengthwise, without cutting all the way through.
3. 3.
   Spread a tablespoon of tomato sauce on each side of the baguettes.
4. 4.
   Layer the chorizo slices on one side of the baguettes, followed by the Manchego cheese slices.
5. 5.
   Close the baguettes and wrap them tightly in aluminum foil.
6. 6.
   Place the wrapped baguettes in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the chorizo is heated through.
7. 7.
   Remove from the oven and let the Bocadillos cool slightly before unwrapping.
8. 8.
   Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chorizo — If you prefer a milder flavor, you can opt for sweet chorizo instead of spicy. Make sure to choose a high-quality chorizo for the best taste.
• Manchego cheese — Look for aged Manchego cheese, as it has a more pronounced flavor. If you can't find Manchego, you can substitute it with another semi-hard cheese like Pecorino or Gouda.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, you can add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a drizzle of olive oil to the sandwich.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chorizo with grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
• To make the Bocadillos ahead of time, assemble the sandwiches and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.
• If you like a bit of heat, you can add a few slices of pickled jalapeños to the sandwich for a spicy twist.
• Serve the Bocadillos with a side of Spanish olives and a refreshing gazpacho soup for a complete Spanish-inspired meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Bocadillos warm, either as a light lunch or a flavorful snack. They are perfect for picnics, parties, or as a quick bite on the go. Accompany them with a side of mixed greens or potato chips for a satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

To present the Bocadillos beautifully, cut them into smaller portions, about 3-4 inches in length. Arrange them on a wooden cutting board or a platter, garnished with fresh parsley. Serve with toothpicks for easy handling.