Cookbook:Fresh Mozzarella Bruschetta

| Appetizers

Bruschette are small, open-faced sandwiches of tomato and mozzarella cheese. They are delicious, quick and easy to make, and perfect appetizers.

Ingredients

 * 1 long loaf of crusty French bread
 * 3 medium ripe Roma tomatoes
 * 3 large fresh mozzarella balls
 * 24 fresh basil leaves
 * Coarse salt
 * Black pepper
 * Extra virgin olive oil
 * Oregano
 * Balsamic vinegar

Procedure

 * 1) Cut bread into ½ inch (1.27 cm) slices on the diagonal.
 * 2) Lightly toast bread in the oven on both sides.
 * 3) Cut tomatoes into ¼ inch (0.75 cm) slices, and place one on each slice of bread.
 * 4) Cut mozzarella balls into ¼ inch (0.75cm) slices and place on top of tomato.
 * 5) Slice basil into thin strips and sprinkle on top with the oregano.
 * 6) Combine olive oil and balsamic vinegar (to taste) in a small bowl
 * 7) Drizzle bruschetta with the mixture and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Notes, tips, and variations

 * An optional re-toasting with toppings on will make the mozzarella melt and be even more delicious.
 * Authentic Italian bruschetta begins with rubbing roasted garlic cloves on the toasted bread slices.