Ingredients
🥄 pints cherry or grape tomatoes
🥄 ounces marinated mozzarella balls (Ciliegine or “cherry” size)
🥄 handfuls large, fresh basil leaves
🥄 balsamic glaze (for dipping)
Instructions
👨🍳 Prepare the tomatoes and mozzarella balls. Begin by washing the cherry tomatoes and patting them dry. If the tomatoes are large, you may want to slice them in half to ensure they lay flat and provide a better surface for layering. Similarly, remove the mozzarella balls from their marinade, allowing excess liquid to drain. The mozzarella should be slightly firm but still soft enough to press gently into the wreath.
👨🍳 Arrange the tomatoes in a circular pattern. Place the tomatoes in a circular shape on a serving platter or large plate. You can alternate the direction of the halves for a more visually interesting appearance. Ensure the tomatoes are touching slightly to create a tight, continuous circle that will hold the structure of the wreath.
👨🍳 Place the mozzarella balls around the tomatoes. Arrange the mozzarella balls around the perimeter of the tomatoes. They should be nestled between the tomatoes, with some resting directly on top. This creates a balanced look and ensures each bite includes a little of each ingredient.
👨🍳 Tuck in the basil leaves. Tuck the large basil leaves between the tomatoes and mozzarella balls, allowing some to drape over the edges. This not only adds a fresh, aromatic element but also enhances the visual appeal of the dish. The green leaves create a striking contrast against the red tomatoes and creamy mozzarella.
👨🍳 Drizzle with balsamic glaze and serve. Before serving, drizzle the entire wreath with balsamic glaze. The glaze will add a glossy, rich finish that enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. Serve immediately, and encourage guests to enjoy the dish as a whole or as individual bites.
Notes
The recipe is adaptable and requires no complicated techniques or long prep time. The use of marinated mozzarella balls adds a tangy twist that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes. For best results, use ripe, firm tomatoes and fresh basil leaves.
- Prep Time: 15
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 180
- Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 6