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Caprese Stuffed Avocado is my go-to appetizer for summer gatherings especially when I want something that feels fresh but takes only minutes to whip up. Pesto tossed tomatoes and mozzarella are all tucked into creamy ripe avocados and finished with basil and a tangy balsamic drizzle. This recipe always disappears fast with both adults and kids begging for seconds.
The first time I made these was on a family beach trip. Watching everyone fall silent after the first bite will forever be one of my favorite kitchen memories.
Ingredients
- Ripe avocados: Choose ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure for best creaminess and easier scooping
- Heirloom tomatoes: Bright flavors and color add freshness look for tomatoes that smell sweet and feel firm
- Buffalo mozzarella balls: Soft and creamy texture buy the freshest you can find in brine for best taste
- Pesto Sauce: Adds layers of flavor homemade pesto is best but store bought works in a pinch
- Fresh basil: Leaves add that signature caprese finish opt for vibrant green leaves with no dark spots
- Balsamic glaze: Brings tangy sweetness look for thick syrupy glaze for the prettiest drizzle
- Optional garlic: Cloves add punch mince finely if using
- Olive oil: To add richness use only extra virgin for flavor and freshness
- Salt and cracked black pepper: For seasoning taste before adding since pesto and cheese can be salty
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Halve and Prepare the Avocados:
- Cut each avocado in half lengthwise and carefully remove the pit. Use a large spoon to scoop a small bit of the flesh from each half creating a wider well for stuffing. Brush cut sides with a little fresh lemon juice to keep them vibrant.
- Prepare the Caprese Salad Mixture:
- Slice the heirloom tomatoes into halves or quarters and add them to a medium bowl. Cut the buffalo mozzarella balls in half for easy mixing. Gently toss tomatoes and mozzarella together with pesto so everything is coated but not drowning. A sprinkle of salt and pepper brings the flavors together.
- Add Optional Garlic and Olive Oil:
- If you want an extra layer of flavor stir in finely-minced garlic and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to the mix. This step is optional if your pesto is robust already.
- Stuff the Avocados:
- Spoon the pesto caprese salad generously into each avocado half filling the wells completely. A little overflow is a good thing here and makes for the best presentation.
- Finish with Basil and Balsamic Glaze:
- Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter them over the stuffed avocados. Drizzle each half with a thick line of balsamic glaze just before serving for a restaurant fancy look.
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I truly love how the buffalo mozzarella soaks up the pesto and tomato juices and it is always the first thing to disappear at the table. The first summer I brought these to a family barbecue my little cousin ate three in a row.
Storage Tips
Stuffed avocados are best eaten right after making since cut avocado can brown quickly. If you need to prepare ahead store the caprese salad mix separately in the fridge and stuff the avocados just before serving. A squeeze of lemon on the exposed avocado helps slow browning.
Ingredient Substitutions
No buffalo mozzarella No problem Use standard fresh mozzarella cut into cubes or even small pearls. Any juicy ripe tomato works when heirlooms are out of season. For a dairy-free version swap the cheese for marinated tofu or skip it entirely and double up on tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these as a starter for any Italian style meal or as a light lunch on a warm day. I also love to line them up on a platter with extra pesto for dipping or scatter toasted pine nuts on top for a bit of crunch. For heartier appetites pair with grilled chicken or shrimp.
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Cultural Context
Caprese salad is a classic dish from the island of Capri in Italy and is beloved for its simple celebration of fresh summer produce. Combining it with creamy avocado gives a nod to California cuisine and makes the dish feel modern and new even as it stays rooted in tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use store-bought pesto for this dish?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto makes prep quick, but homemade pesto offers a fresher, richer taste.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, as long as you use vegetarian-friendly mozzarella and pesto, this is a wonderful vegetarian option.
- → Can I add garlic to the filling?
For a punch of flavor, garlic can be added to the salad mix or pesto, depending on your preference.
- → How should I serve Caprese stuffed avocados?
They work great as an appetizer, first course salad, or a fresh and hearty lunch.
- → How do I prevent avocados from browning?
Squeeze a little lemon juice on the avocado halves before filling to slow down oxidation.
- → Can I make them ahead of time?
Prepare the caprese filling in advance and stuff the avocados just before serving for best texture.