Greek Grilled Stuffed Mushrooms

In anticipation for this weekend’s unofficial start to summer, we have a foolproof crowd-pleasing appetizer for vegetarians and carnivores alike. Before your grill is on overdrive with burgers, sausages and juicy barbecue fare, whip up some 2-bite stuffed mushroom appetizers. We add a Greek flare by filling the mellow rounds with a combination of Kaseri cheese, Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, bread crumbs and mint. The unassuming, earthy bites offer a burst of flavor and pair perfectly with our sweet and tart Citrusy Elderflower Gin Cocktail. With a pop-able grilled bite in one hand, a bocce ball in the other, and a cocktail by your side, you really can’t beat that..

Greek Grilled Mushrooms with Kaseri Cheese and Sun-dried Tomatoes

18 button mushrooms, stems twisted out and finely chopped, caps left as is
4 T EVOO
1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves minced garlic
4 sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, finely chopped
1/2 c Kalamata olives, finely chopped
1 t balsamic vinegar
1 T fresh mint, finely chopped
1 T fresh flat leaf parsley, finely chopped
1/2 c seasoned bread crumbs
1/2 c Kaseri cheese, grated
salt and pepper throughout

Head grill to medium-low heat.

In a medium-sized skillet, heat 1 T EVOO over medium heat. Add the onion, chopped mushroom stems, salt and pepper and sautee for 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sautee for 1 more minute. Set aside to cool slightly.

In a bowl, combine the 2 T EVOO, sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, balsamic vinegar, mint, parsley, bread crumbs, cheese, salt, pepper, and stir to combine.

Rub both sides of the mushroom caps with the 1 T EVOO and set on a platter or baking sheet. With a teaspoon, mound the stuffing among the mushroom caps. With tongs, place the stuffed mushrooms onto the warm grill and cook covered until the mixture is bubbly and the mushrooms are lightly charred and tender, about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them, they will cook quickly!

If you do not have a grill or if mother nature is not cooperating, Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and cook stuffed mushrooms for 15-17 minutes.
 Get ready for a slew of grilling recipes and cocktails ahead!