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Fresh Mini Caprese Salad Bites Recipe Easy 5-Ingredient Appetizer with Balsamic Glaze

fresh mini caprese salad bites - featured image

These fresh mini Caprese salad bites with balsamic glaze are a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, and a sweet-tart balsamic drizzle.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes (about 250g)
  • About 20 small fresh basil leaves
  • 34 tablespoons balsamic glaze
  • 12 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 pint (250g) of cherry tomatoes and pat dry. Slice each tomato in half lengthwise or quarter for smaller bites.
  2. Drain 8 ounces (225g) of fresh mozzarella balls well. Cut into bite-sized pieces if large.
  3. Wash about 20 small fresh basil leaves gently and pat dry. Use whole leaves or tear larger leaves into bite-sized pieces.
  4. On each toothpick or small skewer, thread one half of a cherry tomato, followed by a mozzarella ball or piece, then a folded basil leaf. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
  5. Lay the assembled bites neatly on a serving platter. Drizzle 3-4 tablespoons of balsamic glaze evenly over the bites, then lightly drizzle 1-2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Finish with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  6. For presentation, add a few extra basil leaves around the platter and optionally sprinkle a tiny bit of flaky sea salt.

Notes

Keep bites refrigerated if not serving immediately; bring to room temperature about 15 minutes before serving. If balsamic glaze is too thick, thin with a small splash of water before drizzling. Assemble just before serving to avoid sogginess. For vegan option, substitute mozzarella with marinated tofu or vegan cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese, appetizer, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, balsamic glaze, easy recipe, summer snack, party food