Caprese Christmas Tree

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs fresh mozzarella (logs), sliced into 1/4-inch slices
• 2 lbs medium vine-ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick slices
• 2 bunches fresh basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano (optional)
• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 Tbsp balsamic glaze
• Flakey sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 (4-inch) sliced baguette chunk, halved through thickness (top half only)

Instructions:

1. Cut a star from two mozzarella slices using a cookie cutter, stack them, and set aside.
2. On a large board or platter, form the bottom row of the tree by alternating and overlapping mozzarella, tomato, and basil (about 6 of each).
3. Continue building rows above, making each row narrower to form a triangle.
4. Place the mozzarella star on top and the baguette piece at the bottom as the tree trunk.
5. Sprinkle oregano over the tree, drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze, and finish with salt and pepper.
6. Serve shortly after assembling.