Cherry Tomato Basil Ring

Featured in: Cozy Snack Plates

This colorful wreath features juicy cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves arranged with creamy mozzarella balls to create a visually stunning and flavorful dish. Drizzled with extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze, then lightly seasoned with sea salt and pepper, it offers a fresh and elegant taste. Optional pine nuts add a toasty crunch, making it ideal for easy entertaining or casual get-togethers.

Updated on Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:05:00 GMT
Festive appetizer wreath: bright cherry tomatoes and mozzarella, a beautiful arrangement of flavors. Save to Pinterest
Festive appetizer wreath: bright cherry tomatoes and mozzarella, a beautiful arrangement of flavors. | nibbro.com

A festive and vibrant appetizer featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella, arranged in a beautiful wreath perfect for sharing at gatherings.

I love making this wreath for holiday parties because it brings freshness and flavor to the table without much effort.

Ingredients

  • Vegetables & Herbs: 400 g (about 2 ½ cups) cherry tomatoes, assorted colors if possible, 1 large bunch fresh basil leaves
  • Dairy: 250 g (9 oz) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
  • Pantry: 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tsp balsamic glaze, Sea salt to taste, Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Garnish (optional): 1 tbsp pine nuts toasted, Flaky sea salt

Instructions

Step 1:
Wash and thoroughly dry the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves.
Step 2:
Drain and pat dry the mozzarella balls.
Step 3:
On a large round serving platter arrange the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls alternately in a circular wreath shape leaving space in the center.
Step 4:
Tuck fresh basil leaves between the tomatoes and mozzarella to create a lush green appearance.
Step 5:
Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the wreath.
Step 6:
Lightly season with sea salt and black pepper.
Step 7:
Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and color.
Step 8:
If desired sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and a pinch of flaky sea salt.
Step 9:
Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Mediterranean delight: close-up of a vibrant cherry tomato and basil ring, ready to eat. Save to Pinterest
Mediterranean delight: close-up of a vibrant cherry tomato and basil ring, ready to eat. | nibbro.com

This recipe has become a family favorite for parties and special occasions bringing everyone together with its fresh taste and festive look.

Required Tools

Large serving platter, Paper towels, Small bowl (for toasting pine nuts optional)

Allergen Information

Contains dairy (mozzarella optional pine nuts). Pine nuts may trigger nut allergies omit if necessary. Always check cheese labels for possible additives or allergens.

Nutritional Information

Calories 140 Total Fat 8 g Carbohydrates 5 g Protein 9 g per serving

Elegant appetizer wreath recipe: a gorgeous platter of fresh cherry tomatoes and basil for any gathering. Save to Pinterest
Elegant appetizer wreath recipe: a gorgeous platter of fresh cherry tomatoes and basil for any gathering. | nibbro.com

This appetizer wreath combines ease and elegance making it the perfect dish for any gathering.

Recipe FAQs

Can I prepare this wreath in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the wreath and refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before serving to maintain freshness.

What alternatives can be used for mozzarella?

For dairy-free options, substitute with vegan mozzarella or omit cheese and add extra fresh herbs.

How should the cherry tomatoes be prepared?

Wash and thoroughly dry the cherry tomatoes before arranging them to prevent sogginess and maintain crispness.

What can be added for extra flavor?

Marinated artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers can be included for more vibrant tastes and textures.

Are pine nuts necessary for this dish?

Pine nuts are optional and add a toasty crunch, but the wreath is flavorful without them if allergies are a concern.

Cherry Tomato Basil Ring

Vibrant cherry tomato and basil wreath with fresh mozzarella and balsamic glaze, ideal for sharing.

Prep Time
15 minutes
0
Total Duration
15 minutes
Created by Evan Brooks


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Mediterranean

Makes 8 Portions

Diet Preferences Meatless, No Gluten, Lower Carb

What You'll Need

Vegetables & Herbs

01 2 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, assorted colors if available
02 1 large bunch fresh basil leaves

Dairy

01 9 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained

Pantry

01 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
02 1 teaspoon balsamic glaze
03 Sea salt, to taste
04 Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Garnish (optional)

01 1 tablespoon toasted pine nuts
02 Flaky sea salt

How-To Steps

Step 01

Prepare Ingredients: Wash and thoroughly dry the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves. Drain and pat dry the mozzarella balls.

Step 02

Arrange Wreath: On a large round serving platter, arrange cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls alternately in a circular wreath shape, leaving space in the center.

Step 03

Add Basil Leaves: Tuck fresh basil leaves between the tomatoes and mozzarella to create a lush, green appearance.

Step 04

Dress the Wreath: Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the wreath, then lightly season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 05

Finish with Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the wreath for sweetness and color.

Step 06

Add Optional Garnish: If desired, sprinkle toasted pine nuts and a pinch of flaky sea salt over the wreath.

Step 07

Serve: Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large serving platter
  • Paper towels
  • Small bowl (for toasting pine nuts, optional)

Allergy Info

For allergen concerns, review each food item and check with your healthcare provider.
  • Contains dairy (mozzarella) and optionally pine nuts, which may trigger nut allergies.

Nutrition Details (per portion)

Nutritional values are for reference and aren't a substitute for professional health guidance.
  • Kcal: 140
  • Fats: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Proteins: 9 g