Trader Joe’s Baked Focaccia with Cheese Blend and Pesto

Trader Joe's Focaccia Extravaganza: A Match Made in Melty Heaven

This ain't your average grocery store find, folks. Trader Joe's Roasted Tomato and Parmesan Focaccia is a revelation. Studded with sun-dried tomatoes and boasting a golden, blistered crust, it's the perfect platform for a cheesy, pesto-fueled adventure. Don't be fooled by the simplicity of this recipe, because the results are pure, unadulterated deliciousness.

Complementary flavors:

• Bread's: mild sweetness and starchy base balances the cheese's richness and saltiness, creating a harmonious flavor experience.

• Texture: The softness, chew, or crustiness of the bread contrasts beautifully with the creaminess, smoothness, or firmness of different cheeses, adding textural interest.

• Fat and starch: Both bread and cheese contain fat and starch, which are desirable macronutrients that contribute to a satisfying and satiating experience. 

A perfect blend of textures and flavors:

• Initial bite: The focaccia's crust offers a satisfying crunch, giving way to the soft, pillowy interior.

• Creamy indulgence: The melted cheese blend creates a luxurious, velvety sensation, with sharp Cheddar and nutty Gruyère contrasting the creaminess of the Gouda and the slight tang of the Manchego.

• Herbal depth: The pesto adds a burst of freshness with its garlicky and basil notes, cutting through the richness of the cheese and complementing the savory tomato flecks in the focaccia.

Effortless from start to finish:

• Minimal prep: This recipe requires no fancy equipment or complicated techniques. Simply shred some cheese, spread some pesto, and bake.

• Ready in minutes: With just 15 minutes in the oven, you'll have a restaurant-worthy appetizer or a quick and satisfying meal on the table.

• Pantry-friendly: The recipe relies on readily available ingredients, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or weeknight dinners.

You will need the following ingredients from Trader Joe’s 

• Roasted Tomato and Parmesan Focaccia Bread $3.99

• Cheddar and Gruyere Cheese $7.27

• Double Cream Gouda Cheese $4.25

• Manchego Cheese $6.47

• Genova Pesto $2.99

*You will have leftovers of the cheese and pesto for another day.  Consider buying some crackers and fruit for a weekend cheese board or pasta and tomatoes to use with the leftover pesto.  

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Yield: 4

Author: Jodi Boatman

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Trader Joe’s Baked Focaccia with Cheese Blend and Pesto

This ain't your average grocery store find, folks. Trader Joe's Roasted Tomato and Parmesan Focaccia is a revelation. Studded with sun-dried tomatoes and boasting a golden, blistered crust, it's the perfect platform for a cheesy, pesto-fueled adventure. Don't be fooled by the simplicity of this recipe, because the results are pure, unadulterated deliciousness.

Prep time: 5 MinCook time: 15 MinTotal time: 20 Min

Ingredients

• 12 oz loaf Trader Joe’s Roasted Tomato and Parmesan Focaccia
• 1 cup Cheddar and Gruyere Cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Double Cream Gouda Cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup Manchego Cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons Genova Pesto

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400ºF and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, grate Cheddar and Gruyere, Gouda and Manchego cheese and combine.
3. Slice the focaccia loaf in half lengthwise and gently place both halves on the parchment lined baking dish, slice side up. Sprinkle the cheese blend onto the bottom slice and spread the pesto on the top half. Replace the top half to complete the loaf.
4. Bake for about 15 minutes until the focaccia is a bit brown and crunchy. The cheese should be melted.
5. Transfer to a cutting board and let sit for few minutes. This will make it easier to slice.
6. Serve hot!

Notes

Here are some additional notes and tips:

• Cheese selection: If you don't have all the cheeses listed, feel free to substitute with similar varieties. For example, Monterey Jack cheese can be used instead of Gouda, or Havarti instead of Gruyère.
• For the crust lovers: To achieve an even crispier focaccia crust, preheat your baking sheet in the oven for a few minutes before adding the assembled focaccia.
• Leftovers? No problem!: While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• Serving suggestions: Pair this recipe with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. It also makes a fantastic appetizer for parties or potlucks.
• Take it to the next level: Drizzle the finished focaccia with a balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of high-quality olive oil for an extra flavor boost.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

539.88

Fat

28.52 g

Sat. Fat

13.69 g

Carbs

44.65 g

Fiber

1.61 g

Net carbs

43.03 g

Sugar

2.51 g

Protein

26.79 g

Sodium

1083.26 mg

Cholesterol

78.18 mg

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