What’s better than fresh, French bread? The ficelle is the baby brother of the baguette – a miniature version of a crunchy, hearty classic. These ficelles are toasted and topped with melted, smoked mozzarella and finished with a sweet bruschetta and garnished with fresh basil.
This recipe is simple and versatile – it can be served as an appetizer, a lunch, afternoon snack, or even dinner! These classic Italian flavors cannot fail and are sure to impress everyone from children to adults. The simplicity of this dish allows the ingredients themselves to be the main event. Buon appetito!
Mozzarella & Bruschetta Ficelles
Ingredients
- 4 Ficelles
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 pound smoked mozzarella, cut into 1/4 inch cubes
- 1/2 pint cherry tomatoes
- 5-10 basil leaves
- salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Turn on the broiler in your oven to the “Low” setting.
- Cut cherry tomatoes into quarters and julienne 2-3 basil leaves. Place these in a bowl, sprinkle with a pinch of salt about ½ the olive oil. Toss and set aside.
- Cut the ficelles lengthwise, and brush the tops with olive oil. Let crisp in the oven for 1-2 minutes.
- Remove tray from oven and top with smoke mozzarella cubes. Place back under the broiler until cheese is melted, or beginning to brown, if preferred.
- Plate the ficelles and top with bruschetta. Julienne the remaining basil leaves and add for garnish. Enjoy warm.