Savory Parmesan Waffle Sandwiches with Frozen Basil Ricotta Mousse

Imagine a delightful culinary experience where the savory and the sweet intertwine, captivating your taste buds in unexpected ways. Savory Parmesan Waffle Sandwiches with Frozen Basil Ricotta Mousse combine the crunchy, umami-rich goodness of Parmesan wafers with a luscious, herb-infused ricotta filling. This creative appetizer is an excellent choice for elegant gatherings or simply a unique treat for any cheese lover. Prepare to dive into a recipe that redefines the boundaries of taste and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the perfect blend of flavors and textures, providing a savory experience that masquerades as a dessert. The lacy Parmesan crisps offer a crunchy exterior while the frozen basil ricotta mousse is creamy and refreshing, creating a delightful contrast. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks at all levels, making it an excellent addition to your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your savory Parmesan waffle sandwiches and delicious frozen basil ricotta mousse:

• Parmesan Waffles:
  200 g finely grated Parmigiano Reggiano.
  Freshly cracked black pepper (optional).
  Parchment paper or silicone mat.
• Frozen Basil-Ricotta Filling:
  250 g ricotta (well-drained).
  20 g fresh basil leaves.
  2 tbsp olive oil.
  1 tbsp heavy cream.
  Salt to taste.
• Optional Garnish:
  Lemon zest.
  Microgreens.

Directions

Step 1: Make the Parmesan Wafers: Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Using heaping teaspoons, place the finely grated Parmigiano Reggiano onto the lined tray and flatten into circles measuring about 6–8 cm in diameter. Ensure they are spaced well apart, as they will spread while baking.

Step 2: Bake the Parmesan Wafers: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 5–7 minutes until the wafers turn golden and lacy. Watch closely as they can burn quickly. Once they reach the desired color, remove them from the oven. Let cool on a rack until they become crisp and firm to the touch.

Step 3: Blend the Basil Mousse: While the Parmesan wafers are cooling, prepare the frozen basil-ricotta filling. Start by blanching the fresh basil leaves in boiling water for just a few seconds, then quickly transfer them into a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process. Drain the basil and pat it dry thoroughly. In a blender, combine the blanched basil with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, blending until smooth.

Step 4: Combine with Ricotta: In a mixing bowl, combine the smooth basil puree with the well-drained ricotta cheese, 1 tablespoon of heavy cream, and salt to taste. Mix gently until light and airy, being careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Shape & Freeze the Filling: On a sheet of parchment paper, pipe or spoon the basil-ricotta mixture into rounds or desired dome shapes. Aim for a size that will fit between the Parmesan wafers. Place the filled parchment sheet in the freezer and allow it to freeze until firm, which should take about 2 hours.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches: Once the rounds of basil ricotta are solid, remove them from the freezer. Take one frozen disc and sandwich it between two Parmesan wafers. Press gently but firmly to secure the filling between the two wafers. Repeat the process with the remaining wafers and filling.

Step 7: Serve & Garnish: Plate the savory Parmesan waffle sandwiches and consider garnishing them with lemon zest or a sprinkle of microgreens for added flavor and a pop of color. Serve immediately while the textures contrast, with the crisp outside and cool, creamy filling.

Pro Tips for Making This Recipe

• Quality Cheese: Using high-quality Parmigiano Reggiano will elevate the flavor of the wafers significantly.
• Herb Variations: If you love experimenting, you can incorporate other herbs like chives or parsley into the ricotta filling for a different flavor profile.
• Storage: These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftover Parmesan wafers in an airtight container if needed.
• Garnish Choices: Explore various garnishes like microgreens or edible flowers for elegant presentations.
• Make-Ahead: For planning purposes, you can prepare the cheese wafers and ricotta filling in advance and assemble them before serving.

FAQs

Can I use pre-packaged grated Parmesan for the wafers?

While pre-packaged options are convenient, freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano usually yields better flavor and a more desirable texture.

How do I ensure my ricotta filling is creamy?

Make sure to drain your ricotta thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can make the filling too watery.

What can I substitute for the basil if I dislike it?

You can experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme or dill, or even try a combination of herbs for a unique taste.

How long do the sandwiches keep in the freezer?

These sandwiches can be stored in the freezer for up to a week. Just keep them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

Can I make the Parmesan wafers in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the wafers a day ahead and store them in an airtight container until you are ready to assemble the sandwiches.

Conclusion

Savoring the contrasts of crunchy Parmesan and velvety frozen basil ricotta in this inventive dish encapsulates the magic of combining flavors that might seem worlds apart. These Parmesan waffle sandwiches with frozen basil ricotta mousse not only surprise and delight but redefine how we perceive appetizers and desserts. Whether serving at a dinner party or enjoying them as a special treat at home, this dish is sure to impress anyone who tries it.