Piumini Ragazzo Recipes

MOZZARELLA CHEESE PUFFS (PIUMINI DI MOZZARELLA AL FORNO)

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 350°F.
• Sift dry ingredients together.
• Cream butter, add mozzarella and blend.
• Add flour mixture, mix well and shape into small balls.
• Place balls on lightly greased baking sheet.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
• Serve hot/warm.
• **Note:Cheese Puffs may be frozen unbaked.
• Adjust cooking time if Puffs are placed in the oven while still frozen.

PIMIENTO CHEESE AND BACON GRITS

Steps:

• In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp, 10 to 12 minutes. Remove it to a paper towel-lined plate.
• Meanwhile, bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Whisk in the grits and salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes.
• Stir in the half-and-half and cook until the grits are tender and creamy, about 20 more minutes.
• Add the pimientos, cream cheese, Cheddar and mustard and stir until melted together and combined. Chop the bacon into small pieces and add to the grits. Stir in the pepper and serve.
• If making ahead, allow the dish to cool, then cover and refrigerate. Reheat, covered in foil, at 350 degrees F for 30 minutes or until heated through.