Grilled Jalapeno Mozzarella Poppers

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp (5 ml) lime zest, finely grated
• ¼ tsp (1 ml) each salt and ground pepper
• 12 jalapenos, halved and seeded
• 6 oz (175 g) Saputo Mozzarellissima cheese, cut into twelve ½ –inch (1-cm) by 2-inch (5-cm) pieces
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) cilantro, finely chopped
• 6 slices bacon, halved lengthwise

Instructions

1. Preheat grill to medium-high and grease grates well. Combine olive oil with garlic, lime zest, salt and pepper; brush over cut sides of jalapenos. Stuff one piece of Mozzarellissima into half of the jalapenos and top with cilantro; cap each with an empty jalapeno half. Wrap each pair with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
2. Place on grill and cook covered, turning occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes or until bacon is lightly crisped.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and continue to cook covered for 5 minutes, or until the cheese starts to melt and the jalapeno is tender. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess grease, then serve.

Notes