Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Roasted Tomatoes with Fresh Basil and Mozzarella



Roasted Tomatoes with Fresh Basil and Mozzarella
Serves 8/gluten free/veggie/quick
An easy appetizer. Be sure to use a glass or enameled pan (not plain metal) to avoid any reactivity with the acidic tomatoes. Splurge on a flavorful, fragrant olive oil for the best results.

Ingredients:
Good-quality olive oil
4 medium-large, ripe tomatoes
½ cup chopped fresh basil, plus whole leaves for garnish
4 large cloves garlic, crushed
8 very thin slices mozzarella cheese

Preheat oven to 450°. Pour a little olive oil into a glass or enameled baking dish. Cut tomatoes in half and roll cut half in olive oil; then turn over and arrange in dish, cut side up. Sprinkle each tomato with chopped fresh basil, crushed garlic, salt and pepper to taste, and a thin cheese slice. Drizzle again with olive oil. Roast for 20 minutes, until tender and lightly browned. Garnish with whole basil leaves….