Tomato-Cucumber Stack

Description
I had never heard of this dish before tasting it last summer at my fiancee's house. Then, everywhere I went it began to pop up. Its simple, down-to-earth charm depends upon the freshness of the ingredients - I can't wait for tomato season to return!



Ingredients

 * 1 medium cucumber, sliced ¼-inch
 * 2 – 3 tomatoes, sliced ¼-inch (preferably vine-ripened)
 * ¼ red onion, very thinly sliced
 * 8 large fresh basil leaves, chopped
 * 3 tablespoons good quality balsamic vinegar
 * 1 tablespoon good quality olive oil
 * 2 – 3 cloves garlic, minced
 * 1 pinch sugar
 * 1 pinch red pepper flakes
 * fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced ¼-inch (formaggio di buffalo)

Directions

 * 1) Combine vinegar and oil in small bowl; whisk in garlic, sugar and red pepper flakes.
 * 2) Arrange in individual stacks, or together on a serving platter, as follows: cucumber, tomato, onion, mozzarella.
 * 3) Repeat layers as necessary.
 * 4) Scatter basil leaves liberally.
 * 5) Drizzle vinaigrette; best if flavors are left to marinate for one hour.