Description
Mini Caprese Bites are a delightful, bite-sized appetizer featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and creamy mozzarella balls drizzled with balsamic glaze and olive oil. This easy-to-make recipe captures the classic Italian Caprese flavors in a convenient, portable format perfect for any gathering or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 12 cherry tomatoes
- 12 fresh basil leaves
- 12 small mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 toothpicks or small skewers
Instructions
- Prep the Tomatoes: Start by washing the cherry tomatoes thoroughly under cold water and drying them with a paper towel. Optionally, cut a small X on the bottom of each tomato if you decide to roast them to release steam. Roasting is not required and the tomatoes can be used raw for freshness.
- Prepare the Mozzarella: Drain the mozzarella balls and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture and prevent sogginess. If the mozzarella balls are larger than the cherry tomatoes, cut them in half to ensure balanced bite sizes.
- Assemble the Bites: Using toothpicks or small skewers, thread a cherry tomato first, then a fresh basil leaf, followed by a mozzarella ball. Repeat this until all the ingredients are used. Arrange the bites attractively on a serving platter.
- Drizzle and Season: Lightly drizzle the assembled bites with high-quality extra virgin olive oil and then with balsamic glaze. Season each bite lightly with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- Chill and Serve: For best flavor melding, chill the bites in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before serving. These bites can be served cold or at room temperature depending on your preference.
Notes
- Roasting the cherry tomatoes is optional but adds sweetness and caramelized flavor.
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
- Keep mozzarella dry to avoid soggy bites.
- Chilling before serving enhances flavor integration.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days.
- These bites are vegetarian and gluten-free, suitable for many dietary preferences.
- For a twist, add prosciutto or experiment with herbs like mint or dill.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Mini Caprese Bites, Caprese Salad, Appetizer, Italian Recipe, Cherry Tomatoes, Mozzarella, Basil, Balsamic Glaze, Healthy Snack, Party Food
