Description
Mini Caprese Mozzarella Bites are delightful, bite-sized appetizers featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella pearls, and fragrant basil leaves, all drizzled with a sweet and tangy homemade balsamic glaze. Perfect for parties or light snacks, these easy-to-make skewered bites offer a refreshing and flavorful taste of classic Italian Caprese salad in a convenient finger-food format.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Caprese Bites
- 24 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 24 mini mozzarella pearls (bocconcini)
- 24 fresh basil leaves
- 24 short wooden skewers or toothpicks
For the Balsamic Glaze
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar (120 ml)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (30 ml)
- Pinch of sea salt
Optional Garnish
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Extra-virgin olive oil, optional drizzle
Instructions
- Make 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 let cool to thicken further.
- Prepare Skewers: Lay wooden skewers or toothpicks flat on a clean, dry surface to streamline assembly and ensure uniform size.
- Assemble the Bites – Step 1: Place one halved cherry tomato, cut side down, onto the tip of each skewer for stability.
- Assemble the Bites – Step 2: Gently press a mozzarella pearl onto each tomato, ensuring it sits snugly against the tomato’s interior.
- Assemble the Bites – Step 3: Wrap a fresh basil leaf around the mozzarella and tomato, tucking the stem underneath the skewer for a neat presentation.
- Final Touches: Arrange assembled bites on a serving platter. Drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze over each bite. Optionally, add a light drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and freshly cracked black pepper. Let rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
- You can substitute maple syrup for honey to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
- For a stronger balsamic flavor, simmer the glaze longer but be careful not to burn it.
- These bites are best served fresh but can be prepared a few hours ahead and refrigerated.
- To keep basil leaves fresh and vibrant, assemble just before serving or store assembled bites in an airtight container with a damp paper towel.
