Bocconcini di Mozzarella and Sardines – Appetizer Recipe
Yields: 12 Servings
Category: Appetizer
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sardines in oil | 80g |
| Cherry mozzarella balls (ciliegine) | 12 pieces |
| Cherry tomatoes | 4 pieces |
| Sweet potatoes (or American potatoes) | 100g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 30g |
| Rosemary | A few sprigs |
| Fine salt | To taste |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Rosemary Oil:
- Begin by preparing rosemary-infused oil. Finely chop the rosemary needles using a knife, then set them aside.
-
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
- Wash and dry the sweet potatoes thoroughly, then slice them into very thin rounds, about 2 mm in thickness. A mandolin slicer will help achieve uniform slices.
- Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle them with the prepared rosemary oil, and season with a pinch of salt.
- Bake the sweet potato slices in a preheated convection oven at 200°C (about 400°F) for approximately 10 minutes or until crispy. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
-
Prepare the Other Ingredients:
- While the sweet potatoes are cooling, wash and slice the cherry tomatoes in half.
- Slice each mozzarella ball in half horizontally.
- Drain the sardines and divide them into two pieces.
-
Assemble the Bocconcini:
- For each bocconcino (bite-sized snack), start by taking one half of a mozzarella ball, with the cut side facing up.
- Layer on a thin slice of sweet potato, followed by half a sardine, and finish with a half cherry tomato slice.
- Top it with the second half of the mozzarella ball to enclose the filling.
- Secure the entire stack with a toothpick to hold the layers together.
-
Serving:
- Place the completed bocconcini on a serving platter. Optionally, drizzle a bit more rosemary oil over the top for added flavor.
- Serve immediately for a fresh, flavorful appetizer or finger food.
Enjoy the delightful combination of savory sardines, creamy mozzarella, sweet potatoes, and aromatic rosemary, creating a simple yet sophisticated appetizer perfect for any gathering or special occasion!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: Approx. 150 kcal
Fat: 9g
Protein: 7g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
This recipe offers a beautiful balance of flavors with the salty richness of the sardines, the smoothness of mozzarella, and the fragrant notes from the rosemary oil. The sweet potatoes add texture and a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
