Little mozzarella trees

Method

1. Soak the raisins in wine for half an hour.
2. In the meantime, cut the mozzarella into fairly thick slices and, with some star-shaped cookie cutters of different sizes, cut the layers of the little tree.
3. Keep a mozzarella slice to cut out 2 shooting stars.
4. With the same tool, cut stars of decreasing sizes from slices of bread as well.
5. Coarsely chop the almonds, then put them aside.
6. Put olives, capers, squeezed raisins, a pinch of salt, pepper and a tbsp. of oil in the food processor. Blend until you get a creamy, smooth mixture.
7. Add the almonds.
8. Assemble the little trees on serving plates alternating layers of mozzarella cheese, bread and cream, starting with the bigger stars.
9. Top each tree with a shooting star and keep it in the fridge, wrapped in foil, until ready to serve.

This recipe was created by the foodblogger Elena Levati for Noberasco

Chef's tip

We suggest you use Filippo Berio chili flavoured olive oil but, should it be too much for you, feel free to replace it with a regular extra virgin olive oil.

Serving suggestion

Serve as an appetiser at the beginning of a meal or as part of a buffet. Goes well with all kind of dishes.

Wine selection

Astraio Viognier, Pinot grigio, Negroamaro, Merlot Nero d'Avola, Chianti Classico or Sangiovese.

Family tip

You can replace the almonds with any kind of nuts you prefer, e.g. walnuts, hazelnuts, pine nuts..

Dish history

Here comes a great suggestion for a special Christmassy appetiser! Ideal as an entrée, or on a buffet at a party, these little mozzarella trees will seduce your guests and will be loved by children! All you need is a few simple ingredients and star-shaped cookie cutters.. and in a few minutes you'll have an original dish to serve to your guests! It will look as good on your buffet table as it will taste amazing in your mouth!