Mini Caprese Salad: A Simple and Elegant Appetizer 🍅🥗

Looking for a fresh, delicious, and easy-to-make appetizer? This Mini Caprese Salad is perfect for any occasion! Featuring juicy grape tomatoes, creamy mini mozzarella balls, and a touch of fresh basil, this dish is both beautiful and bursting with flavor. We love to pair with a delicious sous viede steak or one of our favorite pasta dishes as a side! The drizzle of balsamic glaze adds the perfect finishing touch.

Let's get started!

Ingredients:

• 1 full package mini mozzarella balls (from Costco)

• 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)

• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
  

Watch us make this on the ACTUALIZE Cooking Channel:

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

1. Tomatoes: Wash the grape tomatoes and cut them in half. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

2. Mozzarella: Drain the mini mozzarella balls and add them to the bowl with the tomatoes.

2. Assemble the Salad:

1. Toss with Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar: Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the tomatoes and mozzarella. Gently toss to coat.

2. Season: Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste, and toss again to ensure even seasoning.

3. Plate and Garnish:

1. Arrange: Arrange the tomato and mozzarella mixture on a serving platter or individual plates.
   

2. Drizzle: Lightly drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad. Be careful not to overdo it; a little goes a long way.

3. Garnish: Top each serving with a fresh basil leaf for a pop of color and added flavor.
   

Tips for Success:

• Quality Ingredients: Use the freshest ingredients possible for the best flavor. Fresh basil and high-quality olive oil make a big difference.

• Balsamic Glaze: If you don't have balsamic glaze, you can make a quick reduction by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens.

• Serving: This salad is best served immediately after assembling to keep the ingredients fresh and vibrant.
  

Variations:

• Skewers: For a fun twist, thread the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil onto small skewers for easy serving.

• Avocado: Add diced avocado for a creamy addition to the salad.

• Prosciutto: For a more substantial appetizer, include thin slices of prosciutto.
  

This Mini Caprese Salad is a delightful and elegant appetizer that is sure to impress your guests. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and tangy balsamic glaze is simply irresistible. Enjoy this dish at your next gathering or as a light, refreshing snack. Let us know in the comments how your salad turned out and if you added any creative twists!

Buon appetito! 🍅🥗✨