Mozzarella Tomato Olive Cocktail Skewers

Colorful appetizers, and so simple to prepare and packed with flavor!

• Ready In: 15 mins
• Yields: 16 skewers

Ingredients

• 4  ounces fresh mozzarella cheese (small balls, if available)
• 16  grape tomatoes
• 16  kalamata olives, pitted
• 2  tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1  teaspoon  minced garlic
• 1⁄4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1⁄8 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄8 teaspoon pepper
• 1  dash crushed red pepper flakes
• 32  small fresh basil leaves (plus additional for garnish-optional)
• 16  wooden skewers (4"-6-inch)

Directions

1. Cut the mozzarella into bite sized pieces. If you are lucky enough to find the small balls, keep them whole. Place in a medium bowl and stir in the tomatoes, olives, oil, garlic, thyme, salt, pepper and red pepper. Cover and refrigerate 1-3 hours.
2. If basil leaves are large, cut into smaller pieces.
3. Thread the marinated cheese, tomatoes and olives onto skewers, placing the basil leaves inbetween. Place skewers on a platter; garnish with additional fresh basil. Enjoy!