Description
This Caprese Stuffed Avocado is a fresh, no-cook dish combining creamy avocados with a vibrant Caprese filling of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Perfect for a quick, healthy meal or appetizer.
Ingredients
3 large, ripe but firm Haas avocados
1.5 cups (250-300g) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved or quartered if large
1 cup (150-200g) fresh mozzarella pearls (bocconcini), or diced mozzarella
1/2 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves, chiffonade or roughly chopped, plus extra for garnish
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
2–3 tablespoons balsamic glaze
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Caprese Filling: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, gently combine the halved or quartered cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella pearls (or diced mozzarella), and most of the chiffonade fresh basil (reserve some for garnish). Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Season lightly with a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are lightly coated. Be careful not to overmix or crush the mozzarella. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the avocados.
2. Prepare the Avocados: Carefully slice the avocados in half lengthwise. Gently twist the halves to separate them. To remove the pit, firmly strike it with a sharp knife, then twist the knife to dislodge the pit. Alternatively, you can scoop it out with a spoon. Be cautious when handling knives.
3. Scoop the Avocado Flesh (Optional but Recommended): Using a spoon, carefully scoop out some of the avocado flesh from each half, leaving about a 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick border around the edges. This creates a larger well for the Caprese filling. You can chop the scooped-out avocado flesh and add it to the Caprese mixture for extra creaminess and no waste, or save it for another use.
4. Prevent Browning: Immediately brush the cut surfaces of the avocado halves, including the inside of the wells, with fresh lemon juice. This will help prevent oxidation and keep the avocados looking fresh and green.
5. Season the Avocados: Lightly sprinkle the inside of the avocado wells with a tiny pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. This seasons the avocado base itself, ensuring every part of the dish is flavorful.
6. Stuff the Avocados: Generously spoon the prepared Caprese filling into each avocado half. Don’t be afraid to mound it slightly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Arrange the stuffed avocado halves on a serving platter or individual plates. Drizzle each stuffed avocado generously with balsamic glaze. If desired, add an extra light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Garnish with the reserved fresh basil leaves or a little more chiffonade.
8. Serve Immediately: Caprese Stuffed Avocados are best enjoyed immediately after preparation to ensure the avocados are at their freshest and the ingredients maintain their distinct textures and vibrant colors.
Notes
This dish is best served fresh to maintain vibrant colors and textures. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze for the best flavor. Suitable for Mediterranean, keto, or gluten-free diets.
- Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 avocado half
- Calories: 280-350 kcal
- Sugar: 2-3 g
- Sodium: 200-300 mg
- Fat: 25-30 g
- Saturated Fat: 5-7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17-21 g
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 10-12 g
- Fiber: 7-9 g
- Protein: 8-10 g
- Cholesterol: N/A