
FRESH MOZZARELLA, MELON AND PROSCIUTTO CROSTINI
INGREDIENTS:
½ ripe, honeydew melon, cut into ¼” cubes (you may also substitute cantaloupe or watermelon)
1 T fresh mint or basil, chopped
2 t sherry vinegar
2 t honey
2 oz. thin sliced prosciutto, torn into bite size pieces
2 oz. fresh mozzarella, cut into ¼” cubes
½ ea. high quality baguette, sliced into ¼” thick slices.
METHOD:
Prepare crostini: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Arrange sliced baguette on rimmed baking sheets and brush with olive oil or spray lightly with olive oil pan spray. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake 12-15 minute or until crostini are browned and crispy. Remove from oven and cool slightly before proceeding with recipe. Alternately, grill baguette slices on the grill until lightly charred.
Prepare topping: Combine honeydew, mint (or basil) honey, sherry vinegar and cubed mozzarella in a medium bowl. Let flavors combine for 5 minutes. Add torn prosciutto and place on top of crostini.
Serves 4-6
THE TALL TALE COCKTAIL/MOCKTAIL
INGREDIENTS:
2 C Blackberries
3 T granulated sugar
2 T warm water
Juice of 2 limes
1 handful mint leaves
2 ¼ C Bourbon (you may substitute Vodka or Rum if you prefer)
2 C club soda
Crushed iced
METHOD:
In a 1-quart covered container, combine blackberries, granulated sugar, water, lime juice, and mint leaves. Using a spoon, crush berries lightly to release juice. Place lid on container and shake vigorously to combine ingredients. Add bourbon if using and shake again. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
When ready to serve, Strain mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a glass pitcher, being sure to press out all the liquid with the back of a spoon. Add club soda. Stir in ice to fill pitcher. Garnish each drink with additional mint sprigs.
*Note: if you prefer a mocktail, omit the bourbon and add 4 ¼ C club soda.
QUICK PARTY BITES:
Spread thin slices of baguette with extra virgin olive oil and pesto. Top with slivers of sundried tomatoes and fresh mozzarella. Broil briefly until cheese melts.
Top whole grain bread with a mild creamy cheese (such as goat cheese) and garnish with sliced kiwi and berries.