Mozzarella Bites

~Leslie~'s Note:

Cherry and grape tomatoes are the most flavourful winter choices. If you can't find a round of rich, creamy buffalo mozzarella, substitute bocconcini balls cut in quarters. From Food and Drink.

• Total Time: 10 mins
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 0 mins

Ingredients:

Yield: 8 skewers

• 6 ounces buffalo mozzarella
• 24 small cherry tomatoes
• 24 basil leaves
• 24 (5 inch) bamboo skewers

Vinaigrete

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1⁄8; teaspoon salt

Directions:

1. Whisk vinegar in a small bowl with oil, pepper and salt.
2. Cut cheese in twenty-four 1/2 inch cubes. To assemble, slide a tomato onto a skewer, followed by a basil leaf, folded in half, and a cheese cube.
3. Repeat with remaining skewers.
4. Arrange on a serving platter and brush or sprinkle with vinaigrette.
5. Cover and let sit at room temperature up to 2 hours before serving.

Reviews

[PanNan]

I found these little fresh mozzarella balls, and they worked perfectly for this recipe. The balsamic vinaigrette was real tasty, and this is a beautiful and colorful appetizer. Mozzarella has little flavor on it's own, and the vinaigrette and basil add needed flavor. Next time, I'll let it rest longer than 2 hours and turn the skewers regularly in order to absorb even more of the vinaigrette flavor. Thanks for posting this great idea.

[NaCl Caz]

I personally prefer this salad without vinaigrette. The basil is so strong that it really doesn't need it! I just use salt flakes. Buffalo mozzarella is my current obsession. I wasn't sure if I'd like it because it sounds a bit weird, but it's so yum.