This Easy Caprese Stuffed Avocado is a fresh and healthy treat! Creamy avocado meets juicy tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella for a colorful, flavorful mix.
Perfect for a quick lunch or a light snack, I love to whip this up when I need a little something special yet easy. Plus, it looks beautiful on the plate—almost too pretty to eat! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Avocados: Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly to pressure. If you can’t find ripe ones, you can use a spritz of lime juice to help with flavor. For a twist, try using a mango instead of avocado for a fruity variation.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and juicy, perfect for this dish. If they’re unavailable, consider grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes. Roasted tomatoes can also give a delightful flavor boost.
Fresh Mozzarella: The small mozzarella balls add creaminess. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, use part-skim mozzarella or even feta for a different taste.
Fresh Basil: This herb brings a wonderful aroma. If you don’t have basil, try fresh parsley or arugula for a peppery kick. Dried herbs can also work in a pinch—just use less!
Balsamic Glaze: This adds a sweet touch. If you don’t have glaze, a simple balsamic vinegar will do. A drizzle of honey could also enhance sweetness!
How Do I Stuff the Avocados Without Making a Mess?
Stuffing avocados can be tricky, but a few simple steps can make it easier. Start by ensuring your avocados are ripe but not overly soft. When cutting, make a clean slice, and use a spoon to gently scoop out some flesh if needed. This will help create more space.
- Using a small spoon or spatula helps in transferring the filling.
- Filling the avocado halves on a flat surface can help stabilize them.
- Don’t overfill them! A little overflowing is fine, but too much can lead to spills.
The goal is to enjoy the mixture without losing any goodness! Happy stuffing!
Easy Caprese Stuffed Avocado
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze or balsamic reduction
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and easy! It will take you about 10 minutes to prepare, with no cooking required. Perfect for a last-minute snack, appetizer, or a light meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Avocados:
Start by carefully cutting the avocados in half and removing the pits. If the center has a lot of flesh, scoop out a little to create more space for the delicious filling. Just be gentle so you don’t break the avocados!
2. Mix the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. This colorful combination is not only tasty but looks great too!
3. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the tomato and mozzarella mixture. Give it a gentle toss so everything is well coated and flavorful.
4. Seasoning:
Sprinkle some salt and freshly ground black pepper into the mixture, adjusting the seasonings to your taste. A little sprinkle goes a long way!
5. Stuff the Avocados:
Spoon the prepared tomato, mozzarella, and basil mixture into each avocado half. Make sure to divide it evenly so each half has a good amount of goodness!
6. Finish with Balsamic:
Drizzle balsamic glaze over the stuffed avocados. This not only adds sweetness but also gives a beautiful presentation!
7. Garnish (Optional):
If you want, add a few extra basil leaves on top for a pop of color.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in and enjoy this vibrant, creamy, and nutritious Caprese Avocado dish immediately! It’s fresh and perfect for any time of day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can use feta cheese or goat cheese instead of mozzarella. Just crumble it up and mix it with the tomatoes and basil!
How Do I Keep Avocados from Browning?
To keep your avocados looking fresh, drizzle them with a bit of lemon or lime juice right after cutting. The acid helps slow down the oxidation process that causes browning.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While the filling can be made a few hours in advance, it’s best to stuff the avocados just before serving to prevent them from browning. Store the filling in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What Should I Do with Leftover Filling?
If you have any leftover filling, it’s great on its own, served on toast, or mixed into pasta for a delicious salad. Just be sure to keep it stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
