North Carolina Strawberries and Fresh Mozzarella with Mint Pesto Drizzle

Recipe courtesy of the North Carolina Strawberry Project, a partnership of North Carolina State and Johnson & Wales Universities 20 minutes prep time Serves 6 Ingredients: 1 lb strawberries, sliced 1 oz sugar 1 c extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 oz mint leaves 1/4 c almonds, sliced 1/4 c Parmesan cheese 1 clove garlic 1 lb fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch slices 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar, divided Mint leaves for garnish Directions: 1. In a bowl, combine the strawberries and sugar. Cover and set aside. 2. To create the Mint Pesto Drizzle, combine the olive oil, mint leaves, almonds, Parmesan cheese, and garlic in a food processor. Process until well combined. Set aside. 3. Divide mozzarella into 6 equal portions. Place 1 portion of mozzarella slices (overlapping) on each of 6 serving plates. Spoon 1/2 cup of the sugared strawberries on each plate around and over the cheese. Spoon 1/2 teaspoon of the balsamic vinegar and 1 to 2 tablespoons of the Mint Pesto Drizzle over the cheese and strawberries on each plate. 4. Garnish with mint leaves. Serve.