Cheesy Garlic Caprese Bread: A Delightful Italian Appetizer

Ingredients

• 1 large French baguette
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
• 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 Prise Salt (to taste)
• 1 Prise Pepper (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze for drizzling
• 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to create a garlic herb spread.
3. Slice the baguette in half lengthwise and spread the garlic herb mixture evenly over both halves.
4. Place the baguette halves on a baking sheet, cut side up, and bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are crispy and the butter is melted.
5. While the bread is baking, in a medium bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, chopped basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss gently to mix.
6. Remove the bread from the oven and evenly distribute the tomato-mozzarella mixture over both halves.
7. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top.
8. Return the bread to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
9. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then drizzle with balsamic glaze before slicing and serving.