If you’re in the mood for a dish that’s both healthy and bursting with flavor, you’ll love this Caprese Stuffed Avocado recipe. It combines the creamy texture of avocado with the fresh taste of a classic Caprese salad, complete with ripe tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil, all drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic reduction. This dish is not only satisfying and delectable but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a quick snack or a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, diced or use mini mozzarella balls
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or reduction
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions:
- Begin by preparing your avocados. Slice each avocado in half and remove the pit. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out some of the flesh to create a larger cavity for the filling. You can reserve the scooped-out avocado for another use or mash it to spread on toast.
- In a medium bowl, mix the halved cherry tomatoes, diced mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil leaves. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spoon the Caprese mixture into the cavities of the avocado halves. Take care not to overfill them so the ingredients don’t spill out.
- Drizzle each stuffed avocado with the balsamic glaze, ensuring you get a good coating over the top of the Caprese mixture.
- If desired, finish with a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added richness and flavor.
- These Caprese Stuffed Avocados are best enjoyed immediately, while the avocado is fresh and the tomatoes are at their peak flavor. Serve them on a platter and watch as they disappear quickly!
Variations:
- For a dairy-free version, omit the mozzarella cheese or substitute with a dairy-free alternative.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat with your Caprese.
- For those who enjoy a little crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds on top before serving.
This Caprese Stuffed Avocado recipe is sure to impress with its mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures. It’s a visually appealing dish that’s not only simple to make but also offers a healthful twist on traditional Caprese salad. Whether as a light lunch, a starter, or a snack, these stuffed avocados are sure to delight your taste buds. Enjoy your culinary creation!