Lady Bug Caprese Appetizers

Steps

1. Place a double layer of paper towels on the counter.
2. Open the package of pre-cut mozzarella cheese and separate the pieces. If you are using the large Bocchini shapes, slice each ball into three pieces.
3. Place the mozzarella pieces on the paper towels to drain.
4. Rinse the grape tomatoes and cut each grape tomato in half. Trim off a sliver on the stem side of each tomato half and place face down on the paper towels to drain.
5. Cut each olive in half and cut each half in thirds. Discard the square middle piece. Place the rounded ends on the paper towels.
6. Let all the pieces drain for at least a 1/2 hour.
7. Wash the basil leaves and gently pat dry.
8. On a serving dish, place the mozzarella pieces evenly around the platter.
9. Place a dab of balsamic glaze and then a dab of the extra virgin olive oil on top of each piece of mozzarella.
10. Place a basil leaf on top of each piece of mozzarella.
11. Position the cherry tomatoes on top of each basil leaf the way you prefer, either facing the tip or the stem of the basil leaf.
12. Add the olives cut side of the olives to cut side of the tomatoes.
13. Pour some balsamic glaze into a small dish. Dip a toothpick into the glaze and then use it to create a dot on the back of the tomato. Repeat several times on each tomato.
14. If you like, garnish the plate with more basil leaves and serve.