Crostini Alla Caprese Recipe Balsamic

CAPRESE SALAD WITH BALSAMIC REDUCTION

Steps:

• Stir balsamic vinegar and honey together in a small saucepan and place over high heat. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer until the vinegar mixture has reduced to 1/3 cup, about 10 minutes. Set the balsamic reduction aside to cool.
• Arrange alternate slices of tomato and mozzarella cheese decoratively on a serving platter. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper, spread fresh basil leaves over the salad, and drizzle with olive oil and the balsamic reduction.

CROSTINI ALLA CAPRESE

Steps:

• Cut bread into 1/2 inch rounds and place, in a single layer, on a baking sheet.
• In a small skillet, heat oil, over medium low heat; add garlic and saute 5 minutes to infuse the oil with garlic flavor.
• Very lightly brush bread with the garlic flavored oil.
• Toast lightly under the broiler.
• Top each crostini with a tomato slice, fresh basil leaf, and half a mozzarella ball.
• Lightly drizzle all with vinegar and sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes, if desired.
• ALTERNATIVELY: You can skewer the ingredients on small 4-inch skewers, then drizzle with vinegar and red pepper flakes, if desired.