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Easy Simple Appetizer Recipe with Fresh Ingredients for Perfect Parties

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A quick, fresh, and crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, cucumber, basil, and mozzarella with a zesty dressing. Perfect for parties and casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pint fresh cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium cucumber, peeled and chopped
  • A handful fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 8 oz mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine size)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Sea salt to taste (flaky preferred)
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted

Instructions

  1. Rinse the cherry tomatoes and cucumber well. Halve the cherry tomatoes and peel then dice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces. Tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller chunks.
  2. Drain the mozzarella balls in a colander or on paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  3. Optional: Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly until golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
  4. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. In a medium mixing bowl, combine tomatoes, cucumber, basil, and mozzarella. Pour the dressing over and gently toss using a wooden spoon or spatula to coat all ingredients evenly without smashing the mozzarella.
  6. Sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the top if using. Give a final gentle toss and transfer to a serving platter or individual plates.

Notes

Keep veggies chilled before serving for maximum freshness. Add dressing just before serving to avoid sogginess. Use a light hand when tossing to keep mozzarella balls intact. Drain mozzarella well to prevent watery appetizer. Toast pine nuts slowly to avoid burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: easy appetizer, fresh ingredients, party recipe, simple appetizer, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, quick appetizer

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