This Caprese Stuffed Avocado is a fresh and tasty treat! It’s made with ripe avocados, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Yum!
It’s like summer on a plate! I love serving this as a light lunch or a fun appetizer. Plus, it’s so easy to make, you’ll be done before you can even say “mozzarella”! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Avocados: Choose ripe, but not overripe avocados. The perfect one will give slightly when pressed. If you’re low on avocados, you could use cucumber slices for a similar refreshing taste, though it won’t have the creamy texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and juiciness. If tomatoes aren’t in season, you can use sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor, or even diced bell peppers for a crunchy touch.
mozzarella balls: Fresh mozzarella (bocconcini) is ideal here, but any mozzarella cheese can work. Shredded mozzarella or even feta could be a nice substitute, giving a different but tasty twist.
Fresh Basil: Basil is essential for that classic Caprese flavor. If you’re out of fresh basil, try a bit of dried oregano or even arugula for a peppery kick.
How Do You Safely Cut and Scoop Avocados?
Cutting and scooping avocados takes care to avoid injury and ensure the best presentation. Here’s how to do it safely:
- First, use a sharp knife to slice the avocado lengthwise around the pit. Twist gently to separate the halves.
- To remove the pit, carefully tap the pit with the knife and twist to lift it out.
- To create more space for the filling, take a spoon and gently scoop out a bit of flesh from the inside. Don’t scoop too deep or you might break the outer shell.
These steps will help your avocado halves look good while giving you room for that delicious filling!
How to Make Caprese Stuffed Avocado
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: extra basil leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a light meal or appetizer. Just gather your ingredients and you’ll be enjoying this delicious dish in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Avocados:
Start by cutting the avocados in half and removing the pits. If you want to make more room for the filling, you can carefully scoop out a little of the flesh from each half. Just be gentle so you don’t tear the avocado skin!
2. Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, drained mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Gently toss everything together to mix them evenly—this will be the delicious stuffing for the avocados!
3. Season the Mixture:
Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic glaze over the tomato and mozzarella mixture. Now, sprinkle some salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything gently again to make sure each ingredient is coated with the dressing for that added flavor!
4. Stuff the Avocados:
Spoon the colorful tomato and mozzarella mixture into each avocado half. Don’t be shy—fill them generously for a delightful bite!
5. Add Final Touches:
Drizzle any remaining balsamic glaze over the stuffed avocados. If you have extra basil leaves, place them on top for a lovely garnish. They’ll also add to the fresh flavor!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
These stuffed avocados are best enjoyed fresh! Serve them immediately and dig in. You’re in for a treat!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have mozzarella balls, you can use cubed mozzarella cheese or even feta cheese for a tangier flavor. Just be aware that the texture may differ slightly, but it will still be delicious!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Stuffed Avocados?
Unfortunately, stuffed avocados don’t store well, as the avocado may brown quickly. However, you can store the filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just slice fresh avocados right before serving to keep them from browning.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, you can! Simply replace the mozzarella balls with a dairy-free mozzarella alternative or skip the cheese entirely and add more tomatoes or a vegan pesto for added flavor. You’ll still have a tasty and nutritious dish!
What Should I Serve With Caprese Stuffed Avocado?
These stuffed avocados make a great appetizer or side dish! You can pair them with bruschetta, a light salad, or some crispy toasted bread for a well-rounded meal!
