Mary Leone'S Summer Cold Appetizer
A vibrant, refreshing summer appetizer featuring roasted red peppers, fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, perfect for light gatherings and warm-weather menus.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Roast the peppers on a foil-lined tray in the broiler until the skin is blackened on all sides.
- Turn the peppers with tongs to ensure even charring.
- Place the roasted peppers in a brown paper bag and let them cool for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Remove the peppers from the bag, peel off the blackened skin, and carefully remove the seeds.
- Cut the peeled peppers into strips.
- Arrange the roasted pepper strips, sliced Jersey tomatoes, sliced mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves on a large serving plate.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use ripe Jersey tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. If you can't find Jersey tomatoes, any ripe, juicy variety will work. You can also substitute mozzarella with burrata for a creamier texture. When roasting peppers, keep a close eye on them as cooking times may vary based on the broiler's intensity. For a twist, add some chopped olives or capers for a Mediterranean touch.
Serving Suggestions
This appetizer is perfect for summer gatherings, and it pairs beautifully with Zucchini Squash With Sour Cream. Serve it alongside crusty bread or crackers for an easy, refreshing snack. Consider a light white wine or sparkling water to complement the flavors. For a larger meal, it can be served as part of a Mediterranean recipes spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld together, enhancing the taste. To serve leftovers, allow them to come to room temperature or gently reheat in a low oven. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the vegetables mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary Leone'S Summer Cold Appetizer contains roughly 806 calories, with 33g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (113% of the Daily Value), calcium (95% of the Daily Value), and protein (66% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 679mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can roast the peppers and prepare the other ingredients a few hours in advance. Assemble everything just before serving to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. This dish is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, making it ideal for make-ahead meals.
What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
If you're looking for a different flavor, you can substitute mozzarella with burrata for creaminess or feta for a tangy kick. For a dairy-free option, consider using vegan cheese made from nuts or soy, which will still provide a satisfying texture and taste.
How do I know when the peppers are properly roasted?
The peppers are properly roasted when the skin is blackened and blistered all around. This indicates that the skin will peel off easily, revealing tender, flavorful flesh underneath. If they are not fully charred, they may not have the desired smoky flavor, so don’t rush this step.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).