These easy Caprese appetizers combine juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil for a colorful Italian-inspired bite. Finished with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, they’re perfect for parties, holidays, or summer gatherings.
Author:Emily
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Total Time:15 minutes
Yield:20 appetizers
Category:Appetizer
Method:No Cook
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
20 cherry tomatoes
20 small fresh mozzarella balls
20 fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
20 appetizer toothpicks or small skewers
Instructions
Wash the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves, then pat them dry with paper towels.
Drain the fresh mozzarella balls and gently pat dry to remove excess moisture.
Thread one cherry tomato, one fresh basil leaf, and one mozzarella ball onto each toothpick or small skewer.
Arrange the assembled Caprese appetizers on a serving platter.
Drizzle the appetizers evenly with extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
Notes
Use ripe, sweet cherry or grape tomatoes for the best flavor.
Fresh mozzarella pearls or ciliegine work especially well for bite-sized appetizers.
For a sweeter finish, substitute balsamic glaze for the balsamic vinegar.
Assemble up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate in an airtight container. Add the dressing just before serving.
For extra flavor, sprinkle with Italian seasoning or add a small amount of pesto.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days, although the basil is best when fresh.
Nutrition information is estimated and will vary depending on mozzarella size and dressing quantities.