I’ve been trying to avoid some of my favorite foods (aka pizza and pasta). Sometimes it feels like being a vegetarian can quickly become being a carb-o-tarian. So I’m doing my best to get out of the frame of mind where carbs are all I think about.
Mostly, I’ve been switching out carb heavy sides for high fiber options and healthy fats. It works well and I know that eventually it’ll be second nature to skip the pasta aisle at Publix. Even though it’s hard to resist those BOGOs.
Like most of you, Sundays always end up being my grocery shopping/prepping day. Yesterday, I ended up at my favorite produce stand and picked up local tomatoes and basil. The natural next step was to get some mozzarella because the only thing on my mind was pizza. Unfortunately pizza does not fit the lifestyle I’m going for (see above).
The next thought I had was to make a fresh mozzarella and tomato salad. But that didn’t appeal to me. Mostly, because I’m tired of eating salads. Really. It feels like all I ate last week was salad. Not that that’s a bad thing, I just really needed something warm and cheesy in my belly.
Tomato Slice Pizza Bites were exactly what I needed. I’m pretty sure they’re exactly what you need, too.
- One firm, fresh tomato
- Mozzarella
- Basil
- Salt and Pepper
- Olive Oil
- Balsamic Vinegar
- Slice your tomato into 1/2 thick slices
- In a heavy bottom skillet, warm a drizzle of olive oil. Place your tomato slices in the skillet and sear on both sides.
- Once the tomatoes are warmed and brown, sprinkle with salt and pepper (to taste)
- Top each slice with fresh mozzarella
- Allow the mozzarella to melt, then remove from heat
- Allow the slice to cool slightly. Drizzle with balsamic and top with fresh basil
- Enjoy with a fork and knife - the tomatoes can get a bit soft with cooking.
I’m linking up with Confessions of a Mother Runner and Tina Muir for another #MeatlessMonday!
What’s your favorite pizza topping? Are you a traditionalist or do you like to go a little crazy?
YAY! So glad your link worked this week! Thanks so much for joining us :) This sounds DELICIOUS, and such a little healthy treat. I love things like this, especially when you use fresh mozzarella! Amazing! I am definitely sure they are what i need right now….if only I didnt go shopping yesterday ;P Next week!
Tina muir recently posted…Meatless Monday- English Style Jacket Potatoes with Soy Sausages and Baked Beans
Thanks, Tina! I’m so happy to be past the horror that is website migration. Who knew the internet could be so painful :P I love the link up – I’ve found about 100 things I’m dying to make :)
So easy yet so tasty! Almost makes you feel like you are eating real pizza right? Thanks for linking up with us again today for Meatless Monday
Deborah @ Confessions of a Mother Runner recently posted…Tempeh Rice Noodle & Edamame Salad-Meatless Monday
It felt like pizza to me! The flavors definitely satisfied the craving. I love your link up and I’m so glad I got to participate (with a link that works) this week.
i’m making these for our next wine club!!
I hope you like them! I was also thinking they might be good breaded. But that’s because I think about carbs ALL THE TIME ha!
Very clever! I love how they look and think they’d make a great party snack!
Meg @MegBollenback.com recently posted…Wok This Way | Water Stir Fried Baby Bok Choy
Why, thank you! They are definitely not as “portable” as real pizza bites, but when eaten with fork, they will trick you into thinking you’re eating real pizza :P
Oh that sounds delicious! All my favorite parts of a pizza in one bite!
Parita @ myinnershakti recently posted…A Week in the Life – My Day job
Yum yum yum! So good. Pizza anything is the best!
This is such a simple but awesome idea! <3 Can't wait to try it out! :]
Farrahf recently posted…Diet
It’s the easiest pizza I’ve ever made :) I hope you like it!
This looks great – just like the cold tomato/cheese appetizer but a little warm to be more “pizza” ish, and a great substitute if you are staying away from bread.
Liz recently posted…Why Cook with Cast Iron
It’s so good – definitely my go to for a “healthier pizza” option!