One of the best parts of summer is the variety of local produce that's available. We have a short growing season in New England, so we try to get out to the farms at least once a week. I have a "never say no to a fruit or vegetable" policy with my son. If he wants to try it, I'll buy it and fix it.
Tomatoes are one of my favorite things to get, especially the heirloom and bite-sized versions. I love the variety of shapes and colors they come in now. And nothing goes better with tomatoes than fresh mozzarella and basil! I could eat that combo every day and be a happy girl.
This is such a simple recipe, and is great as an appetizer, light lunch, snacking on the go. You can eat them after 3 hours, but I found them best if they marinated for at least 24 hours. I've made them several times, and if I didn't feel like heating up the house for the bread, I used store bought Texas Toast croutons.
So many great recipes coming your way this week, check out the links below. I've stocked up on printer ink and made my shopping list for my next trip to the farm! Thank you to Christie from A Kitchen Hoor's Adventures for hosting #FarmersMarketWeek!
Marinated Mozzarella & Tomato Appetizers
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Italian Salad dressing, I used balsamic
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cartons miniature fresh mozzarella cheese balls
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 12 pieces french bread baguette, sliced about 1/2" thick
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°.
- Combine salad dressing, basil, chives and pepper. Add cheese and tomatoes; toss to coat. Refrigerate, covered, at least 3 hours to let flavors blend (I'd recommend at least 24hrs).
- Meanwhile, toss baguette pieces with oil and salt; arrange on a baking sheet. Bake until toasted, 4-5 minutes. Cool completely.
- Just before serving, add toasted bread to cheese mixture; toss to combine. If desired, thread tomatoes, cheese and bread on skewers for serving.
These look like a perfect appetizer or snack! And good rule of never saying no to a fruit or veggie. I'm the same way with my kids!
ReplyDeleteMy son's always been a picky eater, so if he shows interest in something, I always try to make it happen!
DeleteI love using fresh produce from my garden or the Farmer's Market. These little bites really look good. The perfect summer treat.
ReplyDeleteI do not have a green thumb, so I'm very fortunate to be surrounded by farms and orchards!
DeleteMy youngest is big into tomatoes at the moment so we always have some in the house - these sound easy and tasty.
ReplyDeleteSadly (or maybe not, because I don't have to share!), neither my son or husband like tomatoes...
DeleteI just love these appetizer bites. I know they'd be a hit at a cocktail party!
ReplyDeleteWhat delicious little bites! I know I would love them and they would be fun to serve too. Our cherry tomato plant is going crazy right now, so maybe this weekend!
ReplyDeleteYou had my at mozzarella! Love those little pearls of deliciousness. I will have to marinate mine next time and try these.
ReplyDelete