Mozzarella Milanese with Tomato Basil Salad

Ingredients

• 4 slices of mozzarella cheese (200g) 4 slices of mozzarella cheese (200g)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (60g) 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (60g)
• 2 eggs, beaten 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (120g) 1 cup breadcrumbs (120g)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (25g) 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (25g)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• For the Tomato Basil Salad: For the Tomato Basil Salad:
• 2 large tomatoes, sliced 2 large tomatoes, sliced
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 18g (Saturated Fat: 8g)
• Carbohydrates: 24g (Sugar: 3g)
• Protein: 16g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. 2.
   Place the flour in another shallow dish and season with salt and pepper.
3. 3.
   Dip each slice of mozzarella cheese into the flour, shaking off any excess.
4. 4.
   Dip the floured mozzarella slices into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. 5.
   Coat the mozzarella slices in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
6. 6.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
7. 7.
   Fry the breaded mozzarella slices until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
8. 8.
   Remove the fried mozzarella slices from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. 9.
   In a separate bowl, combine the sliced tomatoes and fresh basil leaves.
10. 10.
    In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
11. 11.
    Drizzle the dressing over the tomato basil salad and toss gently to combine.
12. 12.
    Serve the crispy Mozzarella Milanese alongside the refreshing tomato basil salad.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Mozzarella cheese — Use fresh mozzarella cheese for the best results. Make sure to pat it dry before coating it with flour to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere properly.
• Tomato basil salad — Choose ripe and juicy tomatoes for maximum flavor. Tear the basil leaves instead of chopping them to release their aroma.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crispy crust, you can double coat the mozzarella slices by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the breaded mozzarella slices in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
• Serve the Mozzarella Milanese immediately after frying to enjoy the cheese at its melty best.

Serving advice

Serve the Mozzarella Milanese as an appetizer or a main course accompanied by the tomato basil salad. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an added touch of freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the crispy Mozzarella Milanese slices on a platter, allowing the golden crust to be visible. Place the vibrant tomato basil salad in a separate bowl or on the side, creating a colorful contrast.