Mini Caprese Bites: A Delightful Appetizer Experience Recipe
Mini Caprese Bites are a fresh and delightful appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella balls drizzled with balsamic glaze and olive oil. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for parties, gatherings, or a light snack, offering a harmonious blend of flavors in each skewer.
- Author: Lisa
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 bites 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
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
- Prep the Tomatoes: Wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Optionally, cut a small X on the bottom of each tomato to help release steam if roasting, though they can also be used raw for freshness.
- Prepare the Mozzarella: If mozzarella balls are larger than the cherry tomatoes, cut them in half to ensure balanced bite-sized pieces.
- Assemble the Bites: Thread each toothpick or skewer with a cherry tomato, a fresh basil leaf, and a mozzarella ball in that order until all ingredients are used.
- Drizzle and Season: Arrange the assembled bites on a serving platter. Drizzle evenly with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Chill and Serve: Optionally chill the bites in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider using heirloom cherry tomatoes.
- Substitute balsamic glaze with reduced balsamic vinegar if unavailable.
- These bites are best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
- For a vegan option, substitute mozzarella balls with marinated tofu cubes.
- Perfect as finger food for parties or light appetizers.
Keywords: Caprese, appetizer, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, balsamic glaze, finger food, Italian appetizer