Soft Mozzarella Poached with Tomatoes and Basil

Step 1

Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, until the garlic is golden, about 2 minutes. Remove the garlic and discard. Decrease the heat to medium-low, add the tomatoes, and simmer until the tomatoes soften and begin to liquify. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Let cool for 10 minutes. Puree in a blender until smooth.

Step 2

Twenty minutes before serving, bring the sauce to a simmer in a large saucepan over medium heat. Place the mozzarella in the sauce so that it is half submerged. Remove the pan from the heat and let sit for 6 to 8 minutes.

Step 3

In the meantime, cut the basil leaves into thin strips.

Step 4

To serve, place a piece of warm mozzarella on each plate. Stir the basil into the sauce. Spoon the sauce around the mozzarella. Garnish with the basil sprigs and serve immediately with the bread.