Appetizer Series: Tomato, Basil & Mozzarella Kebabs with a Balsamic Glaze

If you’re looking for a quick and easy appetizer recipe that’s a crowd pleaser, then this is your go-to appetizer for any occasion! You can do it with or without a balsamic glaze reduction!

Growing up, I always enjoyed my moms appetizer of fresh mozzarella, sliced tomatoes and basil. We also can’t forget the balsamic vinegar that It graced every Christmas holiday, birthday celebration and good old fashion Italian meal. Hands down, it’s probably still my favorite appetizer of all time.

This appetizer is a bit of a spin on her typical dish where she would slice a large tomato and mozzarella log, thinly. Then, she would drizzle balsamic vinegar on top and chopped basil for decoration. In this dish, I was going for an easy grab and go that could be dipped in a super easy sweet, tangy glaze to dress it up nicely. Or, you can also just drizzle it evenly on each kebab to make it simpler for your guests to grab and enjoy.

Plus, I love any opportunity to get vegetables into “appetizer form” to give added fiber and prevent you from over indulging at dinnertime!

Serves: 4 (3 kebabs per person)

Prep Time: 4 minute | Cook Time: 6 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 12-1 oz. pearl mozzarella balls
• 12-grape tomatoes
• 2 tbsp freshly chopped basil
• salt and pepper to taste
• 12 wooden toothpicks

For the Glaze (optional):

• 8 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 4 tbsp pure maple syrup

Directions:

1. In a bowl, place the tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, pepper and salt and mix until combined.
2. String on one grape tomato and one mozzarella ball until all are used.
3. If choosing to make the glaze, add the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup to a small sauce pan under medium heat which will take about 1 minute.
4. Bring the pan to a boil, and stir rapidly for 5-minutes under medium heat.
5. Allow the glaze to cool until it can lightly coat the back of a spoon.
6. You can dip your kebab in the glaze or drizzle it on top of each kebab.
7. Enjoy!

Nutrition:

Calories: 70 Total Fat: 5g Cholesterol: 15mg Sodium: 135mg Total Carbohydrates: 4g Protein: 5g Dietary Fiber: 0g Total Sugars: 4g Added Sugars: 5g Calcium: 170mg Potassium: 35mg

Christa Brown

Christa is the creator of Sugar Solution™ for diabetes management and Food Freedom and Flexible Living Academy™ for weight loss. Being one who was able to reverse her pre-diabetes and insulin resistance she utilizes a science based approach with a cognitive therapy and mindful eating approach. She believes that nutrition must be personalized with a holistic view of the person. Learn how to NOT give up the foods you love and yet still get healthier. Work with her here.

www.christabrowndietitian.com