Salmon Mozzarella Canapes

It's five o’clock and time for a martini, or at the very least, some sort of cocktail. It’s been one of those days where errands have dominated my entire day. As I reflect back over my day I realize the only thing I have eaten is ....nothing. So what can I prepare to offer my two neighbors, who are already ringing my doorbell?

I frantically search through my refrigerator hoping for a sign, or something that will jump out in the form of an hors d’oeuvre. What I see is smoked salmon, and mozzarella cheese. Now, I have been known on occasion, to do the impossible with nothing, but today I am void of any creativity. Luckily, I bought a loaf of pumpernickel at the market today. I also have an herb garden and the basil is in full bloom. So here I am, with smoked salmon, mozzarella, pumpernickel, and fresh basil. What to do? These salmon canapes are quick and easy, and require little effort or time. Great to make ‘on the go’ or for even the most elegant of cocktail parties.

Salmon Mozzarella Canapes Recipe

Ingredients:

16 pumpernickel toast pieces (in desired shape)

4 tablespoons of butter, softened

1/2 teaspoon dijon mustard

1/4 teaspoon garlic paste

1 teaspoon chopped basil

sliced smoked salmon

sliced mozzarella cheese

basil, julienned for garnish

Preparation:

Combine the butter, mustard, garlic paste and chopped basil. Spread on one side of the toast pieces. Put a piece of salmon on each and top with a piece of cheese. Arrange on a baking pan and bake in 375 degree oven for 10 minutes, or until cheese melts. Garnish with basil.