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 recipe brings a fresh and colorful starter to any table and has become a favorite at my family gatherings, always impressing guests with its simplicity and flavor.
Ingredients
- Cherry tomatoes: 400 g (about 2 ½ cups), assorted colors if possible
- Fresh basil leaves: 1 large bunch
- Fresh mozzarella balls: 250 g (9 oz) bocconcini or ciliegine
- Extra-virgin olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Balsamic glaze: 1 tsp
- Sea salt: to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper: to taste
- Pine nuts: 1 tbsp, toasted (optional)
- Flaky sea salt: optional garnish
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 appetizer is always the centerpiece of our family parties, bringing everyone together with its fresh flavors and festive look.
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 This cherry tomato wreath makes a delightful and visually stunning appetizer perfect for any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare the wreath in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the wreath and refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before serving to maintain freshness.
- → What alternatives can I use instead of mozzarella?
For a dairy-free option, vegan mozzarella can be used without compromising texture and flavor.
- → How can I add more flavor to the wreath?
Try adding marinated artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers to enhance the taste and variety.
- → Are pine nuts necessary in the garnish?
Pine nuts add a toasted crunch but are optional; you can omit them especially if there are nut allergies.
- → What drinks pair well with this dish?
Crisp white wine or sparkling water complement the fresh and creamy elements of the wreath beautifully.
- → How should cherry tomatoes be prepared?
Wash thoroughly and dry completely to avoid excess moisture affecting the arrangement and texture.