Easy Vegetarian Recipe: Caprese Stuffed Avocados with Balsamic

Easy Vegetarian Recipe

Why You'll Love It

These Caprese Stuffed Avocados perfectly showcase the magic that happens when simple ingredients come together. The buttery richness of ripe avocados creates the perfect vessel for the classic combination of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. This dish is incredibly budget-friendly compared to restaurant versions, costing just a few dollars per serving while delivering gourmet flavor.

The balsamic glaze adds a sweet-tangy dimension that elevates the entire dish, while the fresh herbs bring brightness to every bite. What really makes this recipe special is its versatility – it works beautifully as an elegant starter, a light lunch, or a side dish alongside your favorite grilled entrées. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, these stuffed avocados will quickly become your go-to for Vegetarian recipes throughout the summer months. Why not treat yourself to this simple yet sophisticated dish tonight?

How to Make Caprese Stuffed Avocados

Quick Overview
This no-cook wonder comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for those hot summer days when you want something impressive without heating up the kitchen. The combination of creamy, fresh, and tangy elements creates a satisfying dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Key Ingredients

• 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls (or diced fresh mozzarella)
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the avocados: Cut the avocados in half lengthwise and carefully remove the pits. If needed, scoop out a small portion of the flesh to create a larger cavity for the filling. Drizzle the exposed avocado with lemon juice to prevent browning.
2. Make the Caprese filling: In a medium bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, minced garlic (if using), and most of the sliced basil (save some for garnish). Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and gently toss to combine.
3. Fill the avocados: Spoon the Caprese mixture evenly into the avocado halves, allowing some to spill over onto the plate for a beautiful presentation.
4. Add the finishing touches: Drizzle each stuffed avocado with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with the remaining fresh basil. Add an extra crack of black pepper over the top.
5. Serve immediately: For the best flavor and texture, enjoy these stuffed avocados right after preparing them.

What to Serve With Caprese Stuffed Avocados

These versatile stuffed avocados pair wonderfully with a variety of companions. For a light lunch, serve alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. If you're planning a more substantial meal, these make an excellent side dish for grilled vegetable skewers or a Mediterranean grain bowl with quinoa or farro. For entertaining, include these on a larger antipasto platter with olives, artichoke hearts, and crusty whole grain bread for dipping into the delicious juices.

Top Tips for Perfecting Caprese Stuffed Avocados

• Choose the right avocados: Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure but aren't too soft. They should be ripe enough to be creamy but firm enough to hold their shape.
• Temperature matters: For the best flavor contrast, use cold mozzarella with room-temperature tomatoes and avocados.
• Make your own balsamic glaze: If you don't have store-bought glaze, reduce 1/2 cup of regular balsamic vinegar with 1 tablespoon honey in a small saucepan over medium heat until thick and syrupy (about 10-15 minutes).
• Substitution options: No fresh mozzarella? Use feta cheese or even a dairy-free alternative. Cherry tomatoes can be swapped for diced heirloom or Roma tomatoes in a pinch.

Storing and Reheating Tips

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To prevent browning, brush any exposed avocado with additional lemon juice before storing. The Caprese filling alone (without the avocado) will keep for up to 3 days refrigerated.

This dish isn't ideal for freezing or reheating, so try to make just what you'll eat in one sitting. If you have extra Caprese filling, it makes a delicious topping for toast or can be tossed with pasta for a quick meal the next day.

Conclusion

These Caprese Stuffed Avocados with Balsamic bring together the best of summer vegetarian recipes in one gorgeous, flavorful package. Ready in minutes yet impressive enough for entertaining, this no-cook dish celebrates fresh, simple ingredients at their peak. The contrast of creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and chewy mozzarella creates a satisfying bite every time. Give this recipe a try today and discover your new favorite way to enjoy avocados!

FAQs

Can I prepare Caprese Stuffed Avocados ahead of time?
While the avocados are best cut just before serving to prevent browning, you can prepare the Caprese filling up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. When ready to serve, simply halve the avocados, fill them with the prepared mixture, and add the balsamic drizzle.
What can I use instead of balsamic glaze?
If you don't have balsamic glaze, you can substitute with a drizzle of honey mixed with a splash of regular balsamic vinegar, or try a balsamic vinaigrette dressing. For a completely different flavor profile, a squeeze of lemon juice and a drizzle of good olive oil works beautifully too.
Are Caprese Stuffed Avocados keto-friendly?
Yes! This recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, making it perfect for those following keto or low-carb diets. Just go easy on the balsamic glaze, which does contain some sugar, or substitute with a keto-friendly alternative like a splash of apple cider vinegar mixed with a keto-approved sweetener.