This fresh Caprese stuffed avocado is a burst of flavor! Creamy avocado is filled with juicy tomatoes, rich mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s perfect for a light snack or a fun appetizer!
Whenever I make this, I can’t help but sneak bites before it’s served. Who can resist that colorful mix? Plus, it takes just minutes to prepare—so easy, even my cat could help! 🐱🥑
Ingredients & Substitutions
Avocados: Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly when pressed. If avocados are hard, leave them at room temperature for a few days. For a twist, use Haas avocados for their creamy texture, or try tree-ripened Florida avocados for a lighter taste.
Tomatoes: Cherry or grape tomatoes work best for their sweetness. If they’re out of season, you can use diced roma tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor.
Fresh Mozzarella: Bocconcini or ciliegine are perfect because of their bite-sized nature. You can swap these for diced block mozzarella or use fresh feta for a tangy taste.
Basil: Fresh basil is key, but if you can’t find it, use fresh parsley or mint as a substitute. Dried basil isn’t recommended here as it lacks the brightness of fresh.
Balsamic Glaze: If balsamic glaze isn’t available, a splash of regular balsamic vinegar can work, but use a little less to adjust for acidity. You can also use a touch of lemon juice for brightness!
How Do I Cut and Stuff Avocados Without Making a Mess?
Cutting and stuffing avocados can be tricky, but here’s how to do it cleanly:
- Start by slicing the avocado in half lengthwise and gently twisting to separate the two halves. Use a spoon to remove the pit carefully.
- For extra room, scoop out a bit more flesh from the center, but avoid going too deep to keep the shape.
- When stuffing, use a spoon to place the mixture in, making it a bit heaped on top for a beautiful presentation!
This method keeps your avocados intact while providing plenty of space for the delicious filling!
Fresh Caprese Stuffed Avocado
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffed Avocado:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained and halved
- 10 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced or torn
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or reduction
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: a squeeze of fresh lemon juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes approximately 10 minutes to prepare and is perfect for a quick lunch or snack. It comes together in no time and is best served fresh!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Avocados:
Start by cutting the avocados in half lengthwise. Carefully remove the pits using a spoon or your hand. To create more room for the filling, scoop out a small amount of the flesh around the pit area, making sure to leave enough avocado intact to hold the shape.
2. Make the Filling:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the halved cherry or grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and sliced basil leaves. This mixture is what will fill your avocados, so make sure the pieces are evenly mixed for the best flavor!
3. Season and Combine:
Drizzle the olive oil over the tomato and mozzarella mixture. Add a pinch of salt and some black pepper to taste. Gently toss everything together until well combined. If you’d like, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the flavors and help prevent the avocado from browning.
4. Fill the Avocados:
Using a spoon, carefully spoon the Caprese mixture into each avocado half, dividing it evenly between them. You want them heaped high for a deliciously full bite!
5. Drizzle and Serve:
Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top of the stuffed avocados for an extra touch of flavor. Serve these tasty avocados immediately as a refreshing appetizer or a light meal. Enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ for Fresh Caprese Stuffed Avocado
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While fresh mozzarella is traditional, you can substitute it with feta cheese for a tangy kick, or even goat cheese for a creamier texture. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly!
How Do I Keep Avocados From Browning?
To prevent browning, you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the avocado flesh before stuffing it. The acidity helps slow down the oxidation process, keeping your avocados looking fresh longer.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
It’s best to assemble the stuffed avocados just before serving since the avocados can brown. However, you can prepare the filling (tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and seasonings) in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours. Just stuff the avocados right before serving!
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
You can get creative with your Caprese stuffing! Consider adding some diced red onion, olives, or even a sprinkle of pine nuts for added texture. Just be cautious not to overwhelm the dish — keep the flavors balanced!