ADVERTISEMENT
Introduction:
The holiday season is a time for creativity in the kitchen, and what better way to impress guests than with a festive appetizer that not only looks stunning but tastes delightful? These Christmas Tree Mozzarella Balls are a fun, easy-to-make treat that brings a touch of seasonal charm to your celebration. Perfect for a party platter or as a starter for your Christmas feast, these mozzarella balls are fun to assemble, and they pair perfectly with a variety of sauces and garnishes. Whether you're hosting a Christmas dinner or looking for a simple way to get into the holiday spirit, these cheese balls are a must-try!
Ingredients:
20 small mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
Cherry tomatoes (for tree decorations)
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or spinach leaves (for tree "branches")
Toothpicks or skewers for assembly
1 small star-shaped cookie cutter (for a star garnish)
Optional: Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions:
Prepare the Mozzarella Balls: Begin by draining the mozzarella balls and patting them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Assemble the Tree Shape: On a large platter, start by placing one mozzarella ball at the top of the plate to serve as the tree’s "top."
Create the Layers: Begin layering additional mozzarella balls beneath the first one, slightly overlapping each layer to form the tree’s triangular shape. The base layer should have more mozzarella balls, so feel free to use up to 5 or 6 in the bottom row.
Add the Leaves and Garnishes: Tuck fresh basil leaves between the mozzarella balls to mimic the tree’s branches. You can also use parsley or spinach for added greenery.
Decorate with Tomatoes: Cut cherry tomatoes in half and use them as ornaments by securing them with toothpicks onto the tree.
Star Garnish: For the tree’s "topper," use a small star-shaped cookie cutter to cut a star out of a thin slice of cheese, or use a slice of yellow bell pepper for a colorful variation.
Season: Drizzle the entire tree with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste, and add a few more fresh herbs or spinach leaves for extra color.
Optional Balsamic Glaze: For added flavor and a festive look, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the tree or serve it on the side for dipping.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Tip: These mozzarella balls make a great addition to any holiday spread and can be served alongside crackers, sliced baguette, or cured meats. They're perfect for dipping in balsamic vinegar or a creamy pesto.
Storage Tip: If you're preparing these in advance, it's best to store the mozzarella balls and decorations separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Assemble them just before serving to keep the mozzarella fresh and the basil leaves crisp. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours before serving.
Variants:
ADVERTISEMENT
