Deconstructed Bruschetta with Mozzarella

Step 1

Mix the olive oil and garlic powder in a small bowl. Next place the baguette slices on a rimmed, non-stick baking sheet in a single layer. Then taking a pastry brush, brush the oil over each baguette slice. Make sure to stir the oil and garlic powder occasionally as you go to evenly reincorporate the garlic powder.

Step 2

Finally, bake the baguette slices at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes until you see the baguette slices browned to your preference. Hint: I bake these for the full 20 minutes when I want them to be extra crispy under bruschetta.

Step 3

First layer the tomato, mozzarella, and basil. First, put down a single tomato slice on a cutting board and top it with a slice of fresh mozzarella. Then garnish that with a basil leaf. Cut the circle in half and place each half on a serving tray. Repeat until you have used all the sliced mozzarella. Sprinkle with a touch of sea salt.

Step 4

Once the toasted baguette slices are cooled, arrange them around the outside of your serving tray. Just before serving take the basil, mozzarella, tomato stack and place it on top of a toasted baguette slice. Lightly drizzle balsamic glaze on top and enjoy!