Tomato-Cucumber Stack

Description

I had never heard of this dish before tasting it last summer at my fiancee's house. Then, everywhere I went it began to pop up. Its simple, down-to-earth charm depends upon the freshness of the ingredients - I can't wait for tomato season to return!

tomato cucumber stack

Ingredients

• 1 medium cucumber, sliced ¼-inch
• 2 – 3 tomatoes, sliced ¼-inch (preferably vine-ripened)
• ¼ red onion, very thinly sliced
• 8 large fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 3 tablespoons good quality balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon good quality olive oil
• 2 – 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pinch sugar
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes
• fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced ¼-inch (formaggio di buffalo)

Directions

1. Combine vinegar and oil in small bowl; whisk in garlic, sugar and red pepper flakes.
2. Arrange in individual stacks, or together on a serving platter, as follows: cucumber, tomato, onion, mozzarella.
3. Repeat layers as necessary.
4. Scatter basil leaves liberally.
5. Drizzle vinaigrette; best if flavors are left to marinate for one hour.