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Pizza Caprese



This version of caprese is more like eating a slice of pizza for a more substantial appetizer.  It can also be a quick, healthy meal.


Serves 4

1 clove garlic, finely chopped
1/2 cup olive oil
1 loaf ciabatta bread, split
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Two 6- to 8-ounce fresh mozzarella cheese, mashed
2 pints multicolor cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
1 cup basil leaves, shredded
salt and pepper
a few pinches crushed red pepper

1. Heat a grill or heat pan to medium-high.

2. In a small bowl, mix the garlic with the olive oil.

3. Grill the bread until grill marks appear. Brush with the garlic oil, top with the oregano and spread with the cheese.

4. Top with the tomatoes, basil and more oil; season with salt, black pepper and the red pepper.


Optional:  Drizzle with a little balsamic vinegar.


The simple way to make caprese is just with mozzarella cheese, a slice a tomato, basil, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. We eat these a lot when the tomatoes and basil are ready in the garden.






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