Bocconcini-stuffed Roasted Cherry Peppers

Ingredients

• 20 pickled red cherry peppers, in brine
• 20 very small bocconcini (small mozzarella balls), about 8 ounces, or larger ones cut into pieces
• 20 basil leaves, stems removed
• 20 strips prosciutto (about 1/4 pound)
• Salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Extra-virgin olive oil
• Sprigs fresh basil, garnish

Directions

Remove the peppers from the brine, reserving the brine.

Cut away the stems and top 1/4-inch from each pepper. Using a melon baler, scoop out the seeds.

Wrap a basil leaf around each bocconcini, and then wrap a strip of prosciutto around the basil. Place 1 wrapped ball inside each pepper. Season lightly with salt and pepper, and drizzle with oil.

Return the stuffed peppers to the brine. When ready to serve arrange on a platter and garnish with basil sprigs.