Sun-Dried Tomato-Mozzarella Appetizers

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Servings: 20 Difficulty: Intermediate
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Elegant stuffed cherry tomatoes with creamy mozzarella and sun-dried tomatoes
Sun-Dried Tomato-Mozzarella Appetizers recipe image
Sun-Dried Tomato-Mozzarella Appetizers recipe image
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Sun-Dried Tomato-Mozzarella Appetizers

Author: chefs-mate Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 20 Calories: 101.0

Description

These elegant stuffed cherry tomatoes are the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Fresh cherry tomatoes are hollowed out and filled with a rich mixture of creamy mozzarella, pungent garlic, fragrant fresh basil, and intensely flavored sun-dried tomatoes. The addition of extra virgin olive oil binds the ingredients together, creating a luxurious bite-sized appetizer. Ideal for summer gatherings, dinner parties, or as a sophisticated starter before a main course, they require minimal cooking but maximum flavor. The bright acidity of the tomatoes cuts through the richness of the cheese, offering a refreshing and satisfying experience. Simple to prepare with high-quality ingredients, this vegetarian dish is sure to impress guests and become a staple at your entertaining repertoire.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. If using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drain well and pat dry. If using dehydrated sun-dried tomatoes, soak in warm water for a few minutes according to package directions, then drain, pat dry, and mince.
  2. Cut the mozzarella cheese into small 1/4-inch cubes.
  3. Finely chop the fresh basil leaves and mince the garlic clove.
  4. In a small bowl, combine the cubed mozzarella, minced basil, minced garlic, minced sun-dried tomatoes, and black pepper.
  5. Add the olive oil to the cheese mixture and blend well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
  7. Just before serving, rinse the cherry tomatoes and remove the stem ends.
  8. Cut a thin slice from the bottom of each tomato so it sits flat, then use a melon baller or small spoon to carefully remove the center flesh, creating a hollow shell.
  9. Sprinkle the inside of the hollowed tomatoes lightly with salt and invert them on paper towels to drain any excess liquid briefly.
  10. Stuff the tomatoes generously with the mozzarella mixture.
  11. Garnish each stuffed tomato with a small fresh basil leaf and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 20

Amount Per Serving
Calories 101.0kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 6.5g10%
Saturated Fat 4.0g20%
Cholesterol 19.9mg7%
Sodium 183.3mg8%
Total Carbohydrate 5.6g2%
Dietary Fiber 1.4g6%
Sugars 3.4g
Protein 7.3g15%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For the best flavor, serve these appetizers soon after filling. Fresh tomatoes should not be refrigerated for long periods before serving, as cold temperatures can diminish their flavor and alter their texture.

If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, you can increase the amount of minced garlic used in the filling.

Ensure the sun-dried tomatoes are well-drained and patted dry to prevent the filling from becoming too watery.

Keywords: appetizer, stuffed tomatoes, mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, garlic, vegetarian, italian, party food, easy recipe, no bake, cherry tomatoes, olive oil, summer recipe
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