Whimsical summer appetizer combining fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic on a starfish arrangement.
# Required Ingredients:
→ Produce
01 - 3 large ripe tomatoes
02 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mixed colors, optional)
03 - 1 cup fresh basil leaves
→ Cheese
04 - 9 ounces fresh mozzarella (bocconcini or ciliegine preferred)
→ Condiments
05 - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
06 - 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
→ Seasonings
07 - Sea salt, to taste
08 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
# How-To Steps:
01 - Cut the large tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
02 - Lay the tomato slices in a starfish pattern on a large serving platter.
03 - Scatter halved cherry tomatoes evenly over the arranged tomato slices to enhance color and texture.
04 - If using larger mozzarella balls, drain and slice them; leave bocconcini or ciliegine whole. Distribute the cheese among the tomato layers highlighting the starfish shape.
05 - Insert fresh basil leaves between tomato and mozzarella pieces to ensure even distribution and visual appeal.
06 - Drizzle extra virgin olive oil uniformly over the arrangement, followed by a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
07 - Lightly season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper according to taste.
08 - Serve immediately, optionally garnished with additional basil or edible flowers.
