For a refreshing summertime appetizer, fill bite-size cherry tomatoes, round or pear shaped, with a mixture of savory fillings.

24 cherry tomatoes (can use a mixture of red and yellow tomatoes)
Goat Cheese Filling (see recipe below)


Cut a small portion off the bottoms of each tomato so they will sit on a try without rolling. slice off the tops of each tomatoes and scoop out centers with the small end of a melon scope to make a hollow yet sturdy shell; discard centers. TIP: Turn cherry tomatoes upside down and use the bottom for the top when stuffing. This keeps them standing straight.

Invert tomatoes onto damp paper towels and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate until ready to fill.

Using a small spoon, fill each tomato with about 1 teaspoon of the filling of your choice. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Remove from refrigerator 15 minutes before serving.

Goat Cheese Filling:
1/4 pound fresh cheese
1/4 cup minced fresh basil leaves
1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

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