Description
This vibrant Mozzarella Appetizer features roasted multicolored cherry tomatoes seasoned with garlic, sea salt, and fresh oregano, perfectly paired with creamy fresh mozzarella. Finished with fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, it’s a simple yet elegant dish served with sliced baguette, ideal for entertaining or a delightful starter.
Ingredients
Tomato Mixture
- 2 cups multicolored cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, diced
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, minced
Assembly
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, sliced
- ¼ cup balsamic glaze
- Sliced baguette, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) to prepare for roasting the tomato mixture evenly.
- Prepare Tomato Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, olive oil, diced garlic, sea salt, and minced fresh oregano. Stir gently to coat all ingredients well.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the tomato mixture into a small baking dish ensuring a single layer for even roasting.
- Roast Tomatoes: Bake the tomatoes in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and tomatoes to soften and slightly caramelize.
- Arrange Mozzarella: Place the fresh mozzarella ball in the center of a serving platter, creating a focal point for the appetizer.
- Add Roasted Tomatoes: Spoon the roasted tomato mixture around the mozzarella on the platter, distributing them evenly.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the sliced fresh basil on top of the tomatoes and mozzarella, then drizzle the balsamic glaze over everything to add a sweet and tangy finish.
- Serve: Serve the dish immediately alongside sliced baguette for guests to enjoy scooping up the delicious combination.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture before roasting.
- Use high-quality fresh mozzarella and fresh herbs for best taste.
- The balsamic glaze adds sweetness; if not available, reduce balsamic vinegar over low heat until syrupy.
- Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.
- This appetizer pairs well with a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian