Happy National Wine and Cheese Day

National Wine and Cheese Day July 25th

Add some humor to the day celebrating National Wine and Cheese Day and a few tomato appetizers.

Tomato and Mozzarella Caprese Skewers

Recipe from Taste of Home makes 12 kabobs

Cook's notes:

These appetizers can be made up early in the day before serving and stored in refrigerator. The basil does wilt a little, but they still look fine. As far as the mozzarella goes, I chose the ciliegine, or cherry-sized, mozzarella balls. Depending on the brand available at your grocery store, you may find slightly larger sizes, or smaller, such as the perline variety. Personally I liked using mozzarella balls that are about the same size as the grape tomato, so I tried to match them up in size.

Ingredients:

• Grape or cherry tomatoes
• Cherry-size fresh mozzarella cheese balls
• Fresh basil leaves
• Drizzle of olive oil 
• Drizzle of high quality dark balsamic vinegar or chocolate balsamic  
• Skewers

Directions:

• On each wooden skewer, alternately thread two tomatoes, one cheese ball and two basil leaves; place on a serving plate.
• In a small bowl, whisk the oil and vinegar; drizzle over kebobs just before serving.

Another serving idea when a mini bite will do

I found these mini cups at Michaels perfect for a small bite. I used a toothpick for each one and threaded on one mozerrella ball, a basil leaf and a grape tomato. Right before servving added a small drizzle of chocolate balsamic to the cup. Dark balsamic (good quality) can be used too. I put two mini appetizers in each cup. 

Pesto Tomato Cheese Tarts
Recipe from Taste of Home makes 15 appetizers
Ingredients:

• 2/3 cup diced tomatoes, patted dry on a paper towel
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 5 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoon prepared pesto
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 1 package (1.9 oz.) frozen miniature phyllo tart shells

Directions:

• In a small bowl, combine the tomatoes, mayonnaise, cheeses, pesto and pepper.
• Spoon heaping teaspoonfuls into tart shells. Place on an ungreased baking sheet.
• Bake at 350° for 8-12 minutes or until lightly browned. Yield: 15 appetizers.

If life deals you lemons, make lemonade,

If it deals you tomatoes, make Bloody Marys.
Anonymous