Have I mentioned how much I love caprese? I’m sure I have, because nothing really beats juicy tomatoes, bright basil, and sweet balsamic on a slice of mozzarella. This takes it a step further and add crispy, delicious garlic bread to the mix.
This is a perfect finger food for a party, or an appetizing appetizer for any entree. As tasty as it is, it is also great for taking only minutes to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes, quartered
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 loaf french bread
- 8 ounces mozzarella balls
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons balsamic reduction glaze
- Divide the loaf in half lengthwise. In a small pot, melt the butter. Add the garlic, Italian seasoning, and ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of pepper. Cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in one tablespoon of the olive oil.
- Drizzle the seasoned garlic butter over the open halves of the bread, and spread using the back of the spoon. Broil the loaves, buttered side up on high for about 1 minute, until desired crispiness is achieved.
- Distribute the mozzarella balls on the bread and return to the broiler for an additional 30 seconds, until cheese has melted. Chop the bread into 4 inch slices.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the tomatoes, basil leaves, remaining salt, pepper, and olive oil. Stir until fully mixed.
- Distribute tomato and basil mixture on top of the bread and drizzle with balsamic reduction.