Description
Caprese Salad Bites with Balsamic Reduction are a delightful, bite-sized twist on the classic Italian Caprese salad. Featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves, these appetizers are enhanced with a sweet and tangy homemade balsamic reduction. Perfect for parties and easy to assemble, these no-bake bites offer a fresh, flavorful, and elegant starter.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
Balsamic Reduction
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional)
To Finish
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Wooden toothpicks or small skewers for assembling
Instructions
- Prepare the Balsamic Reduction: In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring the balsamic vinegar to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and reduces by about half. Stir in honey or brown sugar if using, then remove from heat. Allow the reduction to cool completely as it will continue to thicken while cooling.
- Prepare the Ingredients: Meanwhile, rinse and dry the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves thoroughly. If the mozzarella balls are large, cut them into bite-sized pieces to ensure easy assembly and eating.
- Assemble the Caprese Bites: Thread one cherry tomato, one folded basil leaf, and one mozzarella ball onto each wooden toothpick or small skewer. Arrange the assembled bites neatly on a serving platter.
- Add Finishing Touches: Drizzle the assembled bite-sized skewers with extra virgin olive oil, then sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve with Balsamic Reduction: Just before serving, drizzle the cooled balsamic reduction over the arranged Caprese bites to add a rich, tangy glaze that complements the fresh ingredients perfectly.
Notes
- For the best flavor, use high-quality balsamic vinegar and fresh mozzarella balls.
- The balsamic reduction can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Bring it to room temperature before drizzling.
- Assemble the Caprese bites shortly before serving to keep the basil leaves fresh and vibrant.
