Cherry Tomatoes Filled with Goat Cheese

For a refreshing summertime appetizer, fill bite-size cherry tomatoes, round or pear shaped, with a savory mixture of goat cheese flavored with basil. Minced tarragon or chervil can be used in place of the basil.

Ingredients:

  • 24 cherry tomatoes, a mixture of red and yellow
  • 1/4 lb. fresh goat cheese (chèvre)
  • 1/4 cup minced fresh basil
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. freshly ground pepper

Directions:

Cut the top off each cherry tomato. Using a small spoon, scoop out the pulp to make a hollow yet sturdy shell. Drain off any juice that accumulates in the shells.

In a bowl, combine the cheese, basil, salt and pepper. Mix with a fork until well blended.

Using the small spoon, fill each tomato with about 1 tsp. of the cheese mixture. Arrange the filled tomatoes on a platter to serve. Serves 4.

Adapted from Williams-Sonoma Lifestyles Series, Casual Outdoor Dining, by Georgeanne Brennan (Time-Life Books, 1998).