# Components:
→ Produce
01 - 3 large ripe tomatoes
02 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes (mixed colors, optional)
03 - 1 cup fresh basil leaves
→ Cheese
04 - 9 oz fresh mozzarella (bocconcini or ciliegine preferred)
→ Condiments
05 - 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
06 - 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
→ Seasonings
07 - Sea salt, to taste
08 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
# Directions:
01 - Cut large tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick slices.
02 - Lay the tomato slices on a large serving platter in the shape of a starfish.
03 - Halve cherry tomatoes and scatter evenly over the tomato base to enhance color and texture.
04 - Drain and slice larger mozzarella balls or leave bocconcini/ciliegine whole; place pieces among tomato slices to accentuate starfish design.
05 - Insert fresh basil leaves evenly between tomato and mozzarella components for visual and aromatic appeal.
06 - Drizzle extra virgin olive oil uniformly over the arrangement, followed by balsamic glaze.
07 - Sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper as preferred.
08 - Present immediately, optionally garnished with additional basil or edible flowers.
