Description
These Caprese Salad Bites with Balsamic Reduction are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer perfect for any gathering. The classic combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, drizzled with a tangy balsamic reduction, is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Caprese Salad Bites:
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Balsamic Reduction:
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- toothpicks or small skewers for assembling
Instructions
- Balsamic Reduction: In a small saucepan, add the balsamic vinegar and honey (if using). Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is reduced by half and slightly syrupy. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Assemble the Bites: Thread one tomato, one mozzarella ball, and one basil leaf onto each toothpick or skewer. Arrange on a serving platter. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic reduction over the bites.
Notes
- These can be made ahead by assembling the skewers and refrigerating them; drizzle the balsamic reduction right before serving.
- For extra flavor, marinate the mozzarella balls in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for an hour before assembling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook (with stovetop reduction)
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bites
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
