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Quick & Easy Italian Appetizer

This simple caprese-style appetizer combines cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for snacks or gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Use grape tomatoes or chopped regular tomatoes as substitutes.
  • 1 cup mozzarella balls Bocconcini or ciliegine works best.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Flavored oil or light vinaigrette can be used as alternatives.
  • to taste salt and pepper Add salt gradually to avoid over-salting.
  • fresh basil leaves About a handful; can substitute with oregano or arugula.
  • balsamic glaze Optional for drizzling. Can substitute with balsamic vinegar.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Wash the tomatoes and basil. Halve the cherry tomatoes and drain the mozzarella balls.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Put the halved tomatoes and mozzarella balls in a mixing bowl. Add whole basil leaves or tear them into pieces.
  2. Drizzle olive oil over the mix and season with salt and pepper. Toss gently.
Serving
  1. Place the mix on small skewers or arrange on a platter. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best flavor, use room-temperature cheese and tomatoes. Make just before serving for freshness. The mixture can get watery if left too long.