Balsamic Caprese Mini Bites with Watermelon Cubes

 A SLICE OF SUMMER
Balsamic Caprese Mini Bites with Watermelon Cubes

Cook's Notes: Save time on party day by slicing cucumbers and watermelon cubes ahead but bag separately.  Assemble and drizzle with balsamic right before serving. Highly recommend using a chocolate  balsamic as it really amps up the flavor. Another option is making a mint lime vinaigrette (recipe below) but substitute mint for basil.  At larger grocery stores you can find herb mozzarella balls which would be great for this appetizer. 
Ingredients:

• Cucumber slices
• Watermelon cubes
• Mozzarella balls (deli section) or Feta cubes 
• Roma tomatoes
• Basil or mint chopped
• Good quality dark balsamic or chocolate balsamic 

Directions:

• Line a large plate with two paper towels. 
• Slice cucumbers about 1/4 inch thick and cube watermelon into bite sized pieces.
• Place both on paper towels to drain.
• Chiffonade the basil leaves (chop) see this tutorial  https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-chiffonade-fresh-basil-leaves-cooking-lessons-from-the-kitchn-188971
• Assembly: Cucumber slice, watermelon cube, cheese ball, toothpick and tomato   

Mint Lime Vinaigrette
Ingredients:

• 2 TB. olive oil
• 2 TB. fresh mint
• 4 tsp. lime juice
• 1 tsp. honey 
• 1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

• Whisk to combine or use a blender to mix. 
• Serve with Blueberry Lemonade Slushies (recipe previously published) 

https://sockfairies.blogspot.com/2019/07/blueberry-lemonade-slushies.html