Ciliegine and Tomato Bites with Kalamata Olive Driz

Name: Ciliegine and Tomato Bites with Kalamata Olive Drizzle and Fresh Basil
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 20 to 25 small grape or cherry tomatoes, halved; 40 to 50 small fresh basil leaves; 8 ounces ciliegine,* drained and patted dry, halved; 1/4 cup chopped pitted kalamata olives; 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 1/4 teaspoon minced garlic; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper; 2 tablespoons minced fresh oregano or marjoram leaves; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Kosher salt, for garnishing; *Note: Ciliegine are cherry-sized balls of fresh mozzarella, available at upscale cheese markets and some gourmet grocery stores. If these are unavailable in your area, simply substitute 1-inch cub…

Servings: persons

20 to 25 small grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
40 to 50 small fresh basil leaves
8 ounces ciliegine,* drained and patted dry, halved
1/4 cup chopped pitted kalamata olives
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 teaspoon minced garlic
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
2 tablespoons minced fresh oregano or marjoram leaves
1/4 teaspoon salt
Kosher salt, for garnishing
*Note: Ciliegine are cherry-sized balls of fresh mozzarella, available at upscale cheese markets and some gourmet grocery stores. If these are unavailable in your area, simply substitute 1-inch cubes of fresh mozzarella.

1
Using small decorative cocktail skewers or bamboo toothpicks, skewer 1 tomato half, 1 basil leaf, and 1 ciliegine half onto each, in kabob-fashion, with the basil leaf sandwiched between the mozzarella and tomato halves and the cut side of both tomato and mozzarella facing each other.
2
Repeat until you have used all of the ciliegine halves.
3
You should have about 3 1/2 dozen.
4
Arrange on a small serving platter and set aside.
5
In the bowl of a blender or food processor, combine the olives, olive oil, garlic, crushed red pepper, oregano and salt and process until smooth.
6
Drizzle the olive mixture over the tomato-mozzarella skewers.
7
Sprinkle the entire platter with kosher salt, then serve.

596

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Feel free to swap in similar ingredients you already have on hand and adjust seasoning to taste.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 11 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 20 to 25 small grape or cherry tomatoes, halved, 40 to 50 small fresh basil leaves, 8 ounces ciliegine,* drained and patted dry, halved, 1/4 cup chopped pitted kalamata olives, and more.

Yes, Ciliegine and Tomato Bites with Kalamata Olive Drizzle and Fresh Basil falls under the General category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Ciliegine and Tomato Bites with Kalamata Olive Drizzle and Fresh Basil

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions