Description
These Mini Caprese Mozzarella Bites are a fresh and elegant appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, and fragrant basil leaves, all drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for parties or light snacks, these bites combine classic Italian flavors in a convenient, bite-sized form.
Ingredients
Scale
Caprese Bites
- 24 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 24 mini mozzarella pearls (bocconcini)
- 24 fresh basil leaves
- 24 short wooden skewers or toothpicks
Balsamic Glaze
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar (120 ml)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (30 ml)
- Pinch of sea salt
Optional Garnish
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Balsamic Glaze: Combine balsamic vinegar and honey or maple syrup in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally and cook until reduced by half and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 6 to 8 minutes. Stir in a pinch of sea salt, then remove from heat and allow to cool and thicken further.
- Arrange Skewers: Lay wooden skewers or toothpicks flat on a clean, dry surface to streamline assembly and ensure all bites are uniform in size.
- Assemble Tomatoes: Place one halved cherry tomato, cut side down, onto the tip of each skewer for stability.
- Add Mozzarella: Gently press a mini mozzarella pearl onto each tomato, ensuring it sits snugly against the tomato’s interior to secure the layers.
- Incorporate Basil: Wrap a fresh basil leaf around the mozzarella and tomato, tucking the stem underneath the skewer for a neat and stable presentation.
- Plate and Garnish: Arrange the assembled bites on a serving platter. Drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze evenly over each bite. Optionally, add a light drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Let the bites rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- The balsamic glaze can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- For a vegan option, substitute mozzarella pearls with plant-based cheese alternatives.
- If mini mozzarella pearls are unavailable, small mozzarella balls can be cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Ensure cherry tomatoes are ripe and firm for the best texture and flavor.
- These bites are best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 4 hours before serving.
