Greece vs. Italy... at the table!

Although I am following the Euro football championship (and happy that Italy passed through to semi finals last night ;) ), this post has nothing to do with the event! 

In fact, this post is about 2 countries that are close to my heart, Italy and Greece. I lived in Italy for over 12 years so obviously I am very attached to the country and its culture; as for Greece, well, I spent a lot of time there during the holidays over the years and some of my closest friends are from there. So here are 2 very simple recipes that are sure to transport your taste buds to the mediterranean and which also make perfect amuse-bouche when having guests at home.

ITALY

Raspberry & buffalo mozzarella bites with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar glaze

One day I was at home and wanted to make a simple Caprese salad but realized I didn't have any tomatoes left. I was really craving a Mozzarella salad and not eating one wasn't an option! I had a few raspberries in the fridge so I replaced the tomatoes with these and let me tell you it was simply divine!

Recipe:

Buffalo Mozzarella

Raspberries

Basil

Balsamic vinegar of Modena glaze

Cut the mozzarella as you please and add the raspberries, a leaf of basil and a dash of balsamic glaze. Optional: Add a little extra virgin olive oil. 

Tip:

Make sure that you thoroughly drain the water out of the mozzarella after you cut it or you will end up having a soggy dish. 

GREECE

Watermelon & feta spoons sprinkled with fresh mint leaves

Back in my University years, my Greek friend invited me to stay at her place in Crete. Her mum sure was a great cook and made us some of the most spectacular traditional Greek dishes. The one that touched me the most was a simple dish with watermelon and feta... what a strange combination I thought, but it turned out to be one of my favorite summer dishes up to this day; I introduced this dish to my family and non-Greek friends who also find it a refreshing and original mediterranean flavored salad.  

Recipe:

Feta Cheese

Watermelon (take seeds out)

Fresh mint

Mix the ingredients as you prefer and serve! I opted for a triangle cut which I then served in spoons.