Recipe: Caprese Bites

Recently, I was tasked with bringing a healthy, "plate/utensil free" appetizer for a large group.  A little panicked, I started thinking about options, and decided on caprese bites.  The only downside to this appetizer option is that it takes a little bit of time to assemble.  After assembly, however, the result is tasty and looks fantastic on a large tray.  I also love that this is a meat free option.  When preparing appetizers for a large group, avoiding meat can make your dollar stretch just a bit further.  Finally, this one got five stars in my book because the bites that weren't eaten could be used the next day (or next few days) for lunch or on a salad.  Though I still love my default artichoke dip (here), these bites have made their way into my permanent rotation.  

Caprese Bites

Ingredients:

• Bite sized tomatoes (look for grape or cherry)
• Mozzarella cheese balls  (use the fresh mozzarella from the deli section of the grocery)
• Fresh basil leaves
• Balsamic vinegar
• Salt 
• Pepper

Directions:

1. Rinse tomatoes and basil and let dry completely.
2. Pull apart mozzarella balls and set aside.
3. Cut basil leaves in half and remove stem.  
4. Skewer the ingredients on a toothpick (in order): cheese, basil and tomato.  (The basil will need to be folded to fit nicely on the toothpick.)
5. Once all the bites are skewered (and about an hour before serving), drizzle balsamic vinegar over bites.  Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.  
6. Serve at room temperature.

Enjoy!

xo,