Caprese Stuffed Avocados are a show-stopping appetizer that marries creamy avocados with the vibrant, fresh flavors of a classic Caprese salad. Imagine ripe avocado halves overflowing with juicy cherry tomatoes, pillowy mozzarella, and sweet basil, all kissed with a glossy balsamic glaze. This dish pops with color and is impossibly easy to make, making it perfect for effortless entertaining, light lunches, or picnics where you want to wow with flavor without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Caprese Stuffed Avocados lies in their simplicity—you just need a handful of ingredients, each one adding irresistible taste, gorgeous color, or essential texture. Let’s break down why each element is a must-have for this crowd-pleasing dish!
- Avocados: Choose ripe but still firm avocados for easy scooping and to hold the filling beautifully in each half.
- Cherry tomatoes: Their sweetness and juicy pop bring color and freshness while balancing the creamy avocado.
- Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini): These add a rich, milky flavor and a soft, satisfying bite reminiscent of traditional Caprese salad.
- Fresh basil leaves: Don’t skip these! Chopped basil lends a sweet, peppery aroma and perkiness that ties all the flavors together.
- Balsamic glaze: A drizzle adds depth and sweetness—think of it as the finishing touch that kicks everything up a notch.
- Olive oil: Helps everything come together while adding a fruity richness and gentle sheen.
- Salt and pepper: Just enough to heighten all the natural flavors; don’t be shy here!
How to Make Caprese Stuffed Avocados
Step 1: Prepare the Avocados
Start by halving your avocados and removing the pits. To make them even more generously stuffed, use a spoon to gently scoop out a little extra flesh from the center of each half, creating more space for the Caprese filling. Save the scooped-out avocado for toast or guacamole—you don’t want to waste a bite!
Step 2: Mix the Caprese Filling
In a medium bowl, combine your halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped fresh basil. Drizzle the mixture with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and several cracks of black pepper. Toss the ingredients carefully, so the mozzarella stays whole and the tomatoes don’t get squished. This ensures that each bite bursts with fresh flavors.
Step 3: Fill the Avocado Halves
Spoon the Caprese mixture evenly into the prepared avocado halves, packing them generously so every mouthful offers the creamy, crisp, and juicy delights of this Italian-inspired combo. Press gently, but don’t mash—the flavors should remain distinct and vibrant.
Step 4: Finish with Balsamic Glaze
Just before serving, drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the top of each stuffed avocado. This glossy, dark ribbon adds beautiful contrast and such an irresistible sweet-tart finish that you might want to keep extra glaze on hand for drizzling!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Caprese Stuffed Avocados are best enjoyed fresh right after they’re assembled, when the avocados are lush and green, and the filling is crisp and cool. This is a dish that delights all your senses—tuck in and finish with a flourish!
How to Serve Caprese Stuffed Avocados
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle a few extra chopped basil leaves over the tops, and if you like, add a scatter of toasted pine nuts or cracked black pepper. A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt can really make those flavors pop and adds an inviting sparkle.
Side Dishes
These Caprese Stuffed Avocados shine on their own but also pair beautifully with crusty bread, grilled vegetables, or a crisp mixed green salad. For a heartier appetizer spread, arrange them with prosciutto, olives, or marinated artichokes for an Italian-inspired platter.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dramatic appetizer board, arrange the stuffed avocados on a large platter and drizzle extra balsamic glaze in artistic swirls. For mini party bites, use small avocados or slice each half into thick wedges, securing with cocktail picks for easy serving. You can even try a build-your-own Caprese Stuffed Avocados bar, letting guests customize their toppings!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Caprese Stuffed Avocados, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, pressing a piece of plastic wrap directly against the surface of the avocado to minimize browning. They’ll be best enjoyed within a day, as the avocado is prone to oxidation.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this dish since avocados become watery and slightly mushy when thawed, which affects the taste and texture. The fresh basil and tomatoes also don’t hold up well to freezing, so this recipe is best served fresh.
Reheating
There’s no need (or desire!) to reheat Caprese Stuffed Avocados—the magic is in their cool, crisp freshness. If leftovers have chilled a bit in the fridge, just let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to take the chill off.
FAQs
Can I substitute regular mozzarella for bocconcini in Caprese Stuffed Avocados?
Absolutely! Simply cube up regular fresh mozzarella if bocconcini (the small balls) aren’t available. The texture and flavor will still be spot-on, and your Caprese Stuffed Avocados will taste delicious.
What’s the best way to prevent the avocados from browning?
Aside from serving right away, you can lightly brush the avocado flesh with lemon juice before stuffing. The acidity helps slow down browning, especially if you’re prepping a little in advance.
Are Caprese Stuffed Avocados vegan?
As written, this recipe includes mozzarella, which is not vegan. To make a vegan version, substitute the cheese with your favorite plant-based mozzarella or sprinkle on nutritional yeast for a similar savory kick.
Can I add extra ingredients to the filling?
Absolutely! Some popular additions include toasted pine nuts for crunch, a drizzle of pesto for even more herbaceousness, or a handful of arugula to bring a peppery bite to the mix.
Will this recipe work as a main meal?
Yes, Caprese Stuffed Avocados can absolutely hold their own as a light lunch or dinner—just pair with a whole grain salad or grilled chicken for extra staying power. The healthy fats from the avocado and protein from the mozzarella make it surprisingly satisfying.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both stunning and satisfying, Caprese Stuffed Avocados are bound to become your new go-to. They’re as simple as they are spectacular, bursting with the sunny flavors of Italy in every bite. Give them a try and let the fresh, vibrant magic of this dish win you over!
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Caprese Stuffed Avocados Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Caprese Stuffed Avocados are a fresh and flavorful appetizer that combines creamy avocados with a classic Caprese salad filling. Perfect for a light and healthy summer snack!
Ingredients
Avocado:
2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
Caprese Filling:
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved, 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Dressing:
2 tablespoons balsamic glaze, 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Scoop out avocado flesh: Scoop out a small amount of flesh from each avocado half.
- Prepare Caprese filling: In a medium bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss gently.
- Fill avocados: Spoon Caprese mixture evenly into each avocado half.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze: Just before serving, drizzle avocados with balsamic glaze.
- Serve: Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can add pine nuts or pesto for extra flavor.
- For a dairy-free version, omit mozzarella or use plant-based cheese.
- Best served fresh to prevent avocado browning.
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