Are you ready to elevate your appetizer game with a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious? Introducing the Tomato and Cheese Appetizer—a Mediterranean delight that will have your guests raving and reaching for seconds! With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a mere 15 minutes of your time, you can create a vibrant starter that bursts with flavor and freshness. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply looking to impress your family, this recipe is your ticket to culinary success. Dive in and discover how to make this easy yet elegant dish that’s sure to steal the spotlight!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients: 4 ripe tomatoes, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Wash the tomatoes under cool running water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Slice each tomato into even rounds, approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Next, slice the mozzarella cheese into rounds of similar thickness to the tomatoes, ensuring they match in size for an appealing presentation.
- On a serving platter, arrange the tomato slices in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping them to create a visually appealing display.
- Place a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of each tomato slice, alternating between the two to create a layered effect.
- Once all the tomatoes and cheese are arranged, take the fresh basil leaves and scatter them over the top, adding a burst of color and flavor.
- In a small bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar with a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk it together until well mixed.
- Drizzle the balsamic mixture over the arranged tomatoes and cheese, ensuring an even distribution for added flavor.
- For an extra touch, you can lightly season the appetizer with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the tomato and cheese appetizer immediately as a fresh and flavorful starter, perfect for any Mediterranean meal or gathering.
Tips
- Choose Ripe Tomatoes: For the best flavor, select ripe, juicy tomatoes. Heirloom varieties work wonderfully for their sweetness and color.
- Uniform Slicing: Ensure your tomato and mozzarella slices are of equal thickness (about 1/4 inch) for a balanced presentation and even flavor in every bite.
- Fresh Basil: Use fresh basil leaves for a burst of aromatic flavor. You can also try adding a few whole leaves for a more rustic look.
- Balsamic Vinegar: For an extra depth of flavor, consider using aged balsamic vinegar. It adds a touch of sweetness that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
- Serving Suggestions: This appetizer pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or can be served alongside a selection of olives and cured meats for a Mediterranean platter.
- Make Ahead: You can slice the tomatoes and mozzarella in advance, but assemble the dish just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
- Add a Twist: Feel free to experiment by adding other ingredients like avocado slices or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a bit of heat!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 117kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 20mg
