Pesto Bruschetta with Fresh Mozzarella & Balsamic Syrup

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 cups basil leaves
• 1 cup mint leaves
• 3/4 cup parsley leaves
• 1/4 cup + 2 tbsp pine nuts
• 1/2 cup + 3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large clove of garlic, peeled and roughly chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 baguette
• olive oil
• 3 balls of fresh mozzarella

Instructions

1. 1

   --- Balsamic Syrup ---

2. 2

   In a small saucepan, bring the balsamic vinegar, sugar, and honey to a boil.

3. 3

   Reduce to a simmer and cook down for about 20 minutes (see notes).

4. 4

   --- Pesto ---

5. 5

   In a small sauté pan, toast the pine nuts on low heat for about 5 minutes (see notes).

6. 6

   Meanwhile, combine the basil, mint, parsley, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, and salt in a food processor. When the pine nuts have cooled, add those in as well.

7. 7

   Pulse the mixture until all of the ingredients are finely chopped. Slowly drizzle the olive oil into the food processor as it runs. Process until the pesto is fully incorporated and smooth.

8. 8

   --- Bread ---

9. 9

   Cut the baguette into thick slices. Heat some olive oil over medium-high heat on a griddle or in a sauté pan, just enough to coat the bottom.

10. 10

    Cook the bread until golden brown on each side (about 3 minutes per side).

11. 11

    --- To Serve ---

12. 12

    Spread the pesto onto the toasted bread.

13. 13

    Slice the mozzarella cheese and place one or two slices on each piece of bread. Season the cheese with salt.

14. 14

    Drizzle with the balsamic syrup.