A Caprese Stuffed Avocado is a delicious and healthy twist on the classic Italian Caprese salad. This dish combines the creamy, rich texture of avocado with the fresh, vibrant flavors of tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze. It’s a simple, no-cook dish that’s perfect as a light lunch, snack, or appetizer. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the sweet and juicy tomatoes, while the mozzarella adds a satisfying bite. A drizzle of balsamic reduction adds a tangy finishing touch, making it a flavorful, refreshing meal.
Ingredients (for 2 servings):
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (or 2 medium-sized tomatoes), diced
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella (ciliegine or bocconcini), halved or diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (or whole leaves for garnish)
- 1-2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1-2 tbsp balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: red onion slices, pine nuts, or arugula for extra crunch
Directions:
- Prepare the avocado:
- Slice the avocados in half lengthwise and remove the pit. If the pit is large, you can scoop out a little more of the flesh to create a larger cavity for the filling. Set the avocado halves aside.
- Prepare the Caprese filling:
- In a small bowl, combine the diced cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and chopped basil.
- Drizzle the mixture with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and toss to coat. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Stuff the avocados:
- Spoon the Caprese mixture into the center of each avocado half, filling the cavity with the tomato, mozzarella, and basil mixture. Be generous with the stuffing for a hearty bite.
- Drizzle and garnish:
- Drizzle the stuffed avocados with balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick. If you don’t have balsamic glaze, a simple balsamic reduction can be made by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens.
- Optionally, drizzle with a little more olive oil, and garnish with whole basil leaves, a few extra slices of red onion, or pine nuts for added texture.
- Serve:
- Serve the Caprese stuffed avocado halves immediately as a fresh, vibrant snack or appetizer. Enjoy as is, or serve with some toasted bread or crackers on the side.
Tips:
- Avocado ripeness: Choose avocados that are ripe but not overly soft. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure but should not feel mushy.
- Cheese options: If you prefer a different cheese, you can use fresh burrata, feta, or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for added flavor.
- Balsamic vinegar: If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar in a saucepan over low heat until it becomes thicker and sweeter.
- Additional toppings: For extra flavor, you can sprinkle some chili flakes, drizzle some lemon juice, or top with a few fresh arugula leaves.
Caprese Stuffed Avocado is an easy, nutritious, and satisfying dish that combines the creaminess of avocado with the bright, fresh flavors of a classic Caprese salad. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a light appetizer, this recipe will surely hit the spot!
