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No. 165. Cetriuoli Alla Parmigiana (cucumber) Recipe

Recipe: Cetriuoli Alla Parmigiana (Cucumber)

History of the Recipe:
Cetriuoli Alla Parmigiana, also known as Parmesan cucumbers, is a unique and appetizing dish originating from Italy. The dish showcases the wonderful combination of fresh cucumbers, melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and a rich gravy. Parmesan cheese has long been a staple in Italian cuisine, with its distinctive nutty flavor and crumbly texture adding a delightful touch to various dishes. The addition of cucumbers in this recipe adds a refreshing and crunchy element, making it a perfect summer recipe.

Fun Facts:
- The word "Parmigiana" in the dish's name refers to the use of Parmesan cheese, which is a protected designation of origin in Italy. True Parmesan cheese, or Parmigiano-Reggiano, can only be produced in certain regions of Italy, following specific regulations.
- Cucumbers are believed to have originated in India and have been cultivated for over 3,000 years. They are now widely enjoyed in various cuisines around the world.
- Parmesan cheese is also known as the "King of Italian Cheese" and is highly regarded for its aging process, which can last up to 36 months.

Now, let's dive into the recipe:

Ingredients:
- 1 large cucumber
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup thick gravy
- Salt, to taste
- Cayenne, to taste (optional)

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the cucumber. Peel it, then cut it into slices that are approximately half an inch thick.

2. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Place the cucumber slices in the boiling water and let them cook for about five minutes. This will help soften the cucumbers slightly.

3. Once the cucumbers have been boiled, drain them in a sieve to remove any excess water.

4. In a frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the drained cucumber slices to the pan and sauté them lightly in the melted butter. This will help enhance their flavor and texture.

5. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the sautéed cucumbers. The cheese will melt slightly and form a delicious crust on the cucumber slices.

6. Pour the thick gravy over the cucumbers. The gravy will add richness and depth to the dish. You can use a homemade gravy or choose your favorite store-bought variety.

7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the prepared cucumber dish in the oven and bake for approximately ten minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together, and the cheese will become golden and slightly crispy.

8. Once the dish is nicely browned, remove it from the oven. Be cautious as it will be hot.

9. Serve the Cetriuoli Alla Parmigiana hot. It pairs well as a side dish or can be enjoyed as a light main course. Garnish with a sprinkle of salt and cayenne if desired, to add a hint of spice.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
- Eggplant Parmigiana: This Italian classic applies a similar concept to the cucumbers alla Parmigiana but uses eggplant slices instead. The eggplant is traditionally breaded and fried before being layered with cheese, tomato sauce, and herbs. It is then baked until bubbly and golden.
- Zucchini Parmesan: Another variation of Parmesan-style dishes, zucchini is used as the main ingredient instead of cucumbers or eggplants. Slices of zucchini are coated in breadcrumbs, fried until crispy, layered with cheese and tomato sauce, and baked. It offers a delicious twist on the classic recipe.

Both of these dishes can be enjoyed as vegetarian options or as a side dish to accompany a main course. They showcase the versatility of this cooking method and provide an excellent opportunity to enjoy fresh vegetables in a delightful and cheesy way.

Cetriuoli Alla Parmigiana is a remarkable recipe that combines the crispness of cucumbers with the richness of butter, Parmesan cheese, and thick gravy. Its unique flavors and textures make it a great addition to any meal. So, go ahead and try this delicious Italian dish and savor the delightful combination of flavors that it offers!

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