Insalata Caprese Appetizer

Sorella, here is a little taste of Italy ... from my cucina to yours!  So easy, so delicious, and just in time to get us inspired for our spring vegetable gardens.  Can't wait to be growing tomatoes and basil again.  For now, all you need from the store is 1 container of cherry tomatoes, 1 container of basil, 1 container of round mozzarella balls, and 1 package of toothpicks.  Hopefully at home you have balsamic vinegar & vegetable or olive oil.

On a toothpick, skewer a mozzarella ball, then a basil leaf, then a cherry tomato.  Set on your favorite platter.  Continue making as many as you like.  This would be great for a party - takes minutes to make!!  Pour oil & vinegar into a dipping bowl.  Serve, dip & eat! 

Now, I don't know about your kids, but my kids will only eat this if I just put one tomato or one mozzarella ball on a toothpick.  I would call this version "kid-friendly caprese," but those toothpicks are seriously sharp ... so not so friendly.  But yummy and healthy.  Just be sure to have the kids sit while they eat this :)  (The picture above shows the "kid friendly caprese" on the right).

Ti amo, Sorella!
Lisa