Save A festive and vibrant appetizer featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella, arranged in a beautiful wreath perfect for sharing at gatherings.
This appetizer has always been a hit at our family parties, bringing color and freshness to the table that everyone enjoys.
Ingredients
- Vegetables & Herbs: 400 g (about 2 ½ cups) cherry tomatoes, assorted colors if possible; 1 large bunch fresh basil leaves
- Dairy: 250 g (9 oz) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- Pantry: 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 1 tsp balsamic glaze; Sea salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Garnish (optional): 1 tbsp pine nuts, toasted; Flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and thoroughly dry the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves.
- Step 2:
- Drain and pat dry the mozzarella balls.
- Step 3:
- On a large round serving platter, arrange the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls alternately in a circular wreath shape, leaving space in the center.
- Step 4:
- Tuck fresh basil leaves between the tomatoes and mozzarella to create a lush, green appearance.
- Step 5:
- Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the wreath.
- Step 6:
- Lightly season with sea salt and black pepper.
- Step 7:
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and color.
- Step 8:
- If desired, sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and a pinch of flaky sea salt.
- Step 9:
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Save This dish always brings us together, making every meal feel festive and special.
Notes
For extra flavor add marinated artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers. Pair with crisp white wine or sparkling water. Use vegan mozzarella for a dairy-free version.
Required Tools
Large serving platter. Paper towels. Small bowl (for toasting pine nuts, optional).
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (mozzarella, optional pine nuts). Pine nuts may trigger nut allergies omit if necessary. Always check cheese labels for possible additives or allergens.
Save Serve this visually stunning appetizer fresh for the best experience and enjoy the burst of flavors.
Recipe Help
- → What is the best way to arrange the ingredients?
Arrange cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls alternately on a large round platter to form a wreath shape. Tuck fresh basil leaves in between for color and flavor.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
It can be assembled and refrigerated up to 2 hours before serving to maintain freshness and vibrant colors.
- → How can the flavor be enhanced?
A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze adds richness and a hint of sweetness, while toasted pine nuts provide a crunchy texture.
- → Are there suitable substitutions for mozzarella?
Vegan mozzarella can be used for a dairy-free option without compromising taste or texture.
- → What is an ideal pairing for this dish?
Pairs well with crisp white wine or sparkling water, complementing the fresh and light flavors.
- → How should I handle allergies related to pine nuts?
Omit pine nuts if there are nut allergies, and always check for possible allergens in added ingredients.