Experience a burst of flavor with my Tomato Basil Mozzarella Bites – a delightful Asian-inspired twist on the classic Caprese salad! In just five minutes, you’ll effortlessly craft this fail-proof appetizer featuring a blend of fresh tomatoes, basil leaves, and creamy mozzarella. So, if you’re craving a burst of flavor in every bite, keep reading and let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe together!
Table of Contents
Why I Love This Recipe
Experience the magic of my Tomato Basil Mozzarella Bites! This delightful fusion appetizer effortlessly marries the classic Caprese salad with Japanese-inspired flair, creating a refreshing fusion dish that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor. What makes it truly special is its roots—it’s a cherished family tradition passed down from my mother, infusing the classic Caprese salad with a contemporary Asian twist of replacing traditional balsamic vinegar with soy sauce.
This delightful creation not only features the same dressing used in my popular Japanese Style Avocado dish but also serves as an appetizer version of my beloved Marinated Mozzarella Balls! Perfect for those craving a taste of tradition with a modern spin, these dish is sure to impress. So, why wait? Dive into this mouthwatering recipe now and elevate your appetizer game!
Ingredients
Ingredients
- Tomatoes – fresh tomatoes. Look for tomatoes that are firm, but slightly soft when squeezed.
- Fresh Mozzarella – found in tubs or sealed packages. Can be found in most supermarkets in the refrigerated section.
- Basil Leaves – fresh basil leaves can be found in either packaged or plant form.
- Salt – sea salt preferred.
- Black Pepper – ground.
- Olive Oil – extra virgin olive oil or olive oil of choice.
- Soy Sauce – low-sodium Soy Sauce preferred. Can also use tamari for gluten-free.
🧀 Mozzarella Pro Tip
Consider using Pre-Cut Mozzarella Slices, simplifying the process by eliminating the need for slicing. Just pull them apart and proceed with your recipe seamlessly.
Directions
Step 1 Mix salt, pepper, olive oil, and soy sauce in a mixing bowl, then transfer the dressing to a serving boat.
Step 2 Layer sliced tomatoes and sliced mozzarella, topping each stack with a fresh basil leaf. When it’s time to serve, drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad.
🍽️ Serving Pro Tip
For optimal taste, serve the dish Chilled, ensuring the Sauce is Poured Right Before Serving to maintain its freshness and flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
Complement this dish with other Asian fusion appetizers like the Prosciutto Radish Sprouts Wrap, Smoked Salmon Carpaccio, or Bacon Wrapped Asparagus. These dishes perfectly balance flavors and textures, offering a diverse and satisfying experience that’s sure to impress your guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare mozzarella bites in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the bites a few hours ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Can I use different types of cheese instead of mozzarella?
While mozzarella works best for the traditional flavor profile, you can experiment with other mild cheeses like burrata or even goat cheese for a unique twist.
What can I substitute for basil if I don't have any on hand?
If you don't have fresh basil, you can simply omit or sprinkle some Italian seasoning on instead.
Storage Tips
For preserving freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can be kept for 1-2 days, though it’s recommended to enjoy the dish fresh whenever possible.
Other Recipes You Might Like
- Onion Garlic Macadamia Nuts
- Japanese Deviled Eggs
- Ground Beef & Mushroom Endive Boats
- Garlic Truffle Edamame
Watch How To Make It
Tomato Basil Mozzarella Bites
Ingredients
- 2 Whole Tomatoes
- 16 oz Fresh Mozzarella
- 14-32 Leaves Fresh Basil
- 1/8 tsp Salt
- 1/8 tsp Black Pepper
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Soy Sauce
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine salt, pepper, olive oil and soy sauce. Set aside.
- Thinly slice tomatoes and fresh mozzarella into 1/4" thickness. Set aside.
- On a serving plate, lay down tomato slice followed by a slice of fresh mozzarella topped with basil leaves. Keep chilled until ready to serve and drizzle dressing on top before serving!
Nutrition
*Values Based Per Serving