The Fickle Hobbyist

Once or twice a month my girlfriends and I get together for a “cooking club”.  (we have since conceded that it should actually just be called “eating club” because it’s not like we exchange recipes, we just get together to eat.)  I was drawing a blank as to what I was going to bring today, when at the last minute I decided to do a Mozarella Salad.

The thing is, I didn’t want to bring everything with me and assemble it there, which would mean the salad would actually look presentable, but I didn’t want to make it at home either because it would look … not pretty by the time it got there.

I decided to do these one bite appetizers instead.  I have made them before with a whole cherry and a whole mozzarella ball (Ciliegine) with a basil leaf atop each one, but it wasn’t something you could just pop into your mouth.  Plus, I wanted them to be able to stand up.

Instead I opted to half each of the main ingredients.  This is very very simple to put together, but I think it makes for a really nice presentation.  Just cut your cherry tomatoes (and you can use whatever kind.  My husband just happened to pick up the yellow ones) in half and spear the skinned side with the toothpick.  Then, place a small leaf or a portion of a larger leaf of basil on the toothpick and finish up with half of a mozzarella ball.

There are several recipes you may use for your dressing, but I am a simple girl when it comes to this combination.  I simply sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper and finish up with a dash of olive oil and a good quality balsamic vinegar.  Add some basil chiffonade for garnish and extra yumminess and you are good to go!

This presentation allowed me to put the oil and vinegar on the bites while maintaining an appetizing appearance.  I do think it tastes better when you let it marinate a little.

It’s amazing to me how sometimes the most simple of flavor combinations can be the most delicious.

-Autumn

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