Easy Summer Appetizer Recipe

ByDave Simpson

I enjoy making summer recipes, and my Easy Summer Appetizer could not be more appropriate, with its fresh and vibrant ingredients. This dish is a combination of flavors and textures available this time of year in all the best forms.

I start with a crisp baguette and brush each slice with olive oil for just the right amount of richness. Juicy cherry tomatoes cut into wedges give the dish the sweet burst of flavor that is characteristic of this time of year.

The creamy, neatly diced fresh mozzarella is the perfect counterpoint. And fresh basil is not just a pretty garnish; it brings aromatic freshness and a hint of spicy-sweetness that is really the signature flavor of summer for me.

You could easily skip the step of finishing the dish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and it would still be amazing. But if you do omit it, you’re really missing out.

I guarantee everyone will be swooning for this dish. And if you serve it with a summer wine, then you have just made summer living at its finest.

Ingredients photo for Easy Summer Appetizer Recipe

Ingredients

Ingredients photo for Easy Summer Appetizer Recipe

Baguette: Delivers carbohydrates, establishing the crispy foundation of the starter.

Oil of Olive: Abundant in beneficial lipids that are good for health, it renders a velvety, umami quality to the dish.

Vitamin C is abundant in cherry tomatoes, and they provide a delicious burst of sweetness.

Basil leaves, fresh: Antioxidants abound in this ingredient, which brings a fresh, aromatic flavor.

Fresh Mozzarella: Offers calcium and protein in a creamy package.

A Balsamic Glaze: Supplies a sharp sweetness, enhancing the flavor.

Ingredient Quantities

  • 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2 inch slices

  • 1/4 cup olive oil

  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, diced

  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Your oven should be preheated to 400°F (200°C).

2. Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet, and brush each with olive oil.

3. Put the slices in the oven and bake them for around 5-7 minutes or until they turn golden and become a bit crispy.

4. In a mixing bowl, combine the tomatoes (halved), basil leaves (chopped), and mozzarella (diced).

5. Balsamic glaze should be drizzled over the tomato mixture, and then it should be seasoned with salt and pepper to taste. Then, the mixture should be gently tossed to combine.

6. Take the baguette slices that have been toasted from the oven and allow them to cool for a short time.

7. Place a copious amount of the mixture of basil, tomato, and mozzarella onto each toasted slice of baguette.

8. Place the prepared slices on a serving platter.

9. If desired, drizzle a little more balsamic glaze over the top of each slice.

10. Enjoy your effortless summer appetizer the moment it’s made!

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Pastry brush
4. Mixing bowl
5. Knife
6. Cutting board
7. Measuring cups and spoons
8. Serving platter

FAQ

  • Q: Can I prepare the appetizer in advance?Yes, the baguette can be sliced, and the toppings can be prepared ahead of time. The assembling can be done just before serving to maintain the crispy texture of the bread.

  • Q: Can I substitute balsamic glaze with balsamic vinegar?A: Use balsamic vinegar sparingly. It can be used in place of balsamic glaze, but it is important to avoid using so much that the final dish becomes soggy.

  • Q: How do I store leftovers?A: Keep the toppings in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve the dish again, toast the fresh baguette slices.

  • Q: Are there any variations to this recipe?You can indeed add a slice of prosciutto or drizzle with pesto for added flavor.

  • Q: Can I use a different type of bread?Certainly! Ciabatta or sourdough would work well as delicious substitutes for baguette.

Substitutions and Variations

To substitute for the baguette: Employ sliced ciabatta or French bread to approximate the texture of the baguette.
To substitute for olive oil: Use either avocado oil or grape seed oil.
For fresh basil leaves: Substitute fresh parsley or oregano for a dissimilar taste profile.
Instead of fresh mozzarella, use goat cheese or feta for a stronger flavor.
To make balsamic glaze: Use a light drizzle of honey or a reduction of red wine vinegar for sweetness and acidity.