Serves: 4–6 as an appetizer
Prep Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 large heirloom tomatoes, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup fresh mozzarella pearls
• Hawaiian sea salt, to taste
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 2–3 tablespoons premium mild to medium extra virgin olive oil
• 1–2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (see our favorite pairings below)

Optional Garnish

• Fresh basil leaves*

Our Favorite Pairings

Mild to Medium Extra Virgin Olive Oils

• Arbequina-Spain
• Picual-Spain
• Olgiarola-Italy
  

Artisan Balsamic Vinegars

• Estilo Affinato Reduction
• Italian Herb Dark Balsamic
• Traditional 18-Year Aged Dark Balsamic

Instructions

1. Arrange the heirloom tomato slices on a serving platter, slightly overlapping each slice.
2. Scatter the fresh mozzarella pearls evenly over the tomatoes.
3. Season generously with Hawaiian sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
4. Drizzle with your favorite mild to medium extra virgin olive oil.
5. Finish with a drizzle of artisan balsamic vinegar.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves*, if desired.
7. Serve immediately with crusty artisan bread for dipping.

Serving Ideas

• Pair with grilled sourdough or a toasted baguette.
• Add thinly sliced prosciutto for an effortless summer appetizer.
• Serve alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp.
• Enjoy with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with citrus.

Kitchen Tips

The beauty of this dish is its simplicity. When ingredients are at their peak, they don't need much. A drizzle of premium extra virgin olive oil and artisan balsamic vinegar enhances the natural sweetness of fresh summer tomatoes, creating a dish that's elegant enough for entertaining and easy enough for any day of the week.

*Fresh Basil Note

Fresh basil is optional. If using, we recommend purchasing basil from a trusted supplier and following current local food safety guidance.