Meet your new favorite summer starter: Caprese Stuffed Avocados. Imagine ripe, creamy avocados nestled on a plate, generously filled with the classic Caprese flavors—juicy cherry tomatoes, billowy bite-sized mozzarella, fragrant fresh basil, and a tangy finishing drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s a dish that celebrates vibrant Italian flavors and delivers them in a fun, fuss-free way. Whether you’re craving a quick lunch, an elegant appetizer, or a show-stopping party plate, these Caprese Stuffed Avocados are destined to become a go-to recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make these mouthwatering Caprese Stuffed Avocados. Each ingredient plays a key role, from adding a pop of color to blending delicious flavors and textures. Don’t skip any—you’ll taste the difference!
- Avocados: Choose ripe but still slightly firm avocados for the perfect creamy base and easy handling.
- Cherry tomatoes: These little jewels bring juicy sweetness and vibrant color; grape tomatoes also work great.
- Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine): They offer a soft, mild creaminess that’s key to an authentic Caprese flavor.
- Fresh basil leaves: Basil is the aromatic star—chop it just before serving for the brightest flavor.
- Balsamic glaze: This syrupy drizzle adds tangy depth and makes everything pop visually and in taste.
- Extra virgin olive oil: A drizzle helps meld and enrich all the classic Mediterranean flavors.
- Salt and black pepper: Just a sprinkle elevates every element, making the flavors truly sing.
How to Make Caprese Stuffed Avocados
Step 1: Prep the Caprese Filling
Start by slicing your cherry tomatoes and halving the fresh mozzarella balls. Add them to a medium-sized bowl with the chopped basil. Drizzle with that beautiful extra virgin olive oil, then season generously with salt and black pepper. Gently toss everything together until every morsel is lightly coated and the basil starts to release its amazing aroma.
Step 2: Prepare the Avocado Halves
Take your ripe avocados, slice them in half, and remove the pits. To make a bigger cavity for our stuffing, carefully scoop out a spoonful or two of avocado flesh from each half—just enough to create a little well without compromising the structure. (Pro tip: Save the extra avocado for toast or to fold back into the filling!)
Step 3: Assemble the Caprese Stuffed Avocados
Spoon a generous amount of the Caprese mixture into each avocado half, packing it in so every bite is bursting with fresh flavors. Don’t be afraid to let the filling mound a little above the edge—the more, the merrier!
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Right before serving, drizzle each stuffed avocado with luscious balsamic glaze. It adds a glossy finish and the perfect sweet-tart contrast that ties the whole dish together. Now, sit back and watch these beauties disappear!
How to Serve Caprese Stuffed Avocados
Garnishes
For a little extra flair, top your Caprese Stuffed Avocados with a scatter of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch, plus an extra sprinkle of chopped basil or even a few whole basil leaves. A final crack of black pepper over the tops looks gorgeous and makes the aroma pop even more.
Side Dishes
These stuffed avocados make a stunning light appetizer alongside a simple green salad, grilled sourdough bread, or a platter of roasted Mediterranean vegetables. They’re also fantastic paired with a chilled glass of white wine or a sparkling spritz for a true Italian-inspired treat.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, serve the Caprese Stuffed Avocados on a big platter, nestled over greens or arugula. For a fun, bite-sized version, scoop the filling into smaller avocado halves or even quartered avocados, then secure with toothpicks for a party-friendly twist. Extra balsamic glaze in a squeeze bottle lets everyone add more as desired!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep any unused Caprese Stuffed Avocados fresh, store them in a tightly covered container in the fridge. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the avocado to minimize browning—these are best enjoyed the same day, but will keep up to 24 hours.
Freezing
Unfortunately, avocados and fresh mozzarella don’t freeze well, as the texture changes significantly. It’s best to make only as many as you’ll enjoy fresh; leftovers are a rare problem with a dish this tasty!
Reheating
Since Caprese Stuffed Avocados are meant to be served chilled or at room temperature, there’s no need to reheat. Just let them sit out a few minutes if they’re too cold from the fridge, and enjoy all the bright, fresh flavors.
FAQs
Can I make Caprese Stuffed Avocados ahead of time?
You can prep the Caprese filling a few hours ahead—just keep it refrigerated. For the best texture and color, assemble the avocados right before serving to prevent browning and enjoy peak freshness.
What kind of mozzarella works best?
Fresh mozzarella balls (like ciliegine or bocconcini) are the perfect size and have great moisture and creaminess. If you can’t find them, simply dice a fresh mozzarella log into small cubes as a substitute.
How do I keep the avocados from turning brown?
Brush or drizzle the cut avocado halves with a little lemon juice, then press plastic wrap tightly over them if you need to store or transport before serving. Assembling just before serving is always the gold standard for the prettiest presentation!
Can I add protein or make it a meal?
Absolutely! For a heartier dish, try adding chopped cooked chicken, grilled shrimp, or a handful of chickpeas to the Caprese filling. It’s an easy way to turn these into a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Are there substitutions for balsamic glaze?
If you don’t have balsamic glaze, reduce regular balsamic vinegar over low heat until syrupy, or simply use a splash of vinegar for a lighter zing. Just remember, the glaze brings a special sweetness and sheen to Caprese Stuffed Avocados!
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a delicious and impressive dish that’s as easy to make as it is beautiful to serve, give Caprese Stuffed Avocados a try. I just know you’ll fall in love with every creamy, vibrant, flavor-packed bite!
PrintCaprese Stuffed Avocados Recipe
These Caprese Stuffed Avocados are a delightful combination of creamy avocado, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze. A perfect appetizer or light meal that’s bursting with flavor!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Salad
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Ingredients
Avocado:
- 2 ripe avocados (halved and pitted)
Caprese Filling:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls (halved)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Caprese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper. Toss gently to combine.
- Assemble Stuffed Avocados: Scoop out a small amount of avocado flesh from each half to create a larger cavity. Fill each avocado half with the Caprese mixture. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the stuffed avocados just before serving.
Notes
- Use grape tomatoes if cherry tomatoes are unavailable.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or walnuts.
- Serve immediately to prevent avocado browning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 avocado half with filling
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg