Fresh Basil, Tomato, Mozzarella, Avocado Appetizer

Fresh Basil, Tomato, Mozzarella, Avocado Appetizer

Linda’s Appetizer

I call this Linda’s Appetizer because it is my dear friend Linda’s favorite!  She insists that I make it every time we get together!

1 good sized tomato (try to find the best for the season)

Fresh Mozzarella (either one large round ball or the smaller ones packed in water will do)

Fresh Basil (be sure to use the flowerettes if there are any as they really are the strongest part of the basil plant)

1 ripe avocado (not too ripe but just starting to soften)

Fresh garlic

Freshly cracked black pepper

White Balsamic Vinegar (white is a little less acidic than the regular and it doesn’t turn the rest of the ingredients dark)

Extra Virgin Olive Oil  

Crusty baguette slices (you can crisp up baguette slices by spreading them on a cookie sheet, then brush with olive oil and toast in a 400 degree oven for 8 to 10 mins. or until crisp)

One Sharp Knife

This appetizer looks the best in a decorative clear glass dish.

Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into rounds

Slice the avocado through to the pit around from end to end then hold it with each side in one hand and twist it open. It should be firm enough to then peel the skin off with your fingers. Then slice it in rounds.

Layer the tomato, pieces of fresh basil, mozzarella slice then avocado slice. Make a circle around the dish.  

Chop one small clove of garlic and sprinkle over top.

Drizzle the olive oil over all and then pour the white balsamic over (enough to make a bit of a puddle in the bottom of the dish)

Freshly ground cracked black pepper over all

Serve with sliced crusty baguette (for dipping in the dressing “puddle”)

Yummy!  This one is always a crowd pleaser.