Ingredients:

2 ripe Beefsteak tomatoes (large firm ripe)
8 oz. fresh water-packed mozzarella cheese
8 fresh basil leaves
Drizzle of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Drizzle Balsamic Vinegar (optional)
freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions:

Remove a thin sliver from side of tomato (so it sits securely on a plate). Slice the tomato with a
sharp knife (only ¾ of the way to the bottom with each slice) do not slice all the way down.
Make a slice about every ¾ of an inch. Slice the fresh mozzarella into rounds and insert gently
inside the tomato where it was sliced. Add and insert basil leaves in each slice. Drizzle with
EVOO and or / balsamic vinegar. Serve immediately.