Zucchini Caprese Bites (Print Version)

Fresh zucchini slices with mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, and a balsamic drizzle for a light, tasty starter.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
02 - 16 cherry tomatoes, halved
03 - 16 small fresh basil leaves or torn to fit

→ Dairy

04 - 16 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or 1 large ball sliced into 16 pieces

→ Seasonings

05 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
06 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Garnish

08 - 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze

# Directions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Arrange zucchini slices on the baking sheet, brush both sides lightly with olive oil, then season with salt and black pepper.
03 - Bake the zucchini rounds for 8 to 10 minutes until tender but still firm. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
04 - Top each zucchini round with a slice of mozzarella and a basil leaf, then place one cherry tomato half, cut side down, on top.
05 - Drizzle the assembled zucchini bites with balsamic glaze just before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It uses just a handful of ingredients you probably already have, and the whole thing comes together in less time than it takes to set the table.
  • The zucchini gets tender and slightly sweet in the oven, which makes the creamy mozzarella and bright tomato taste even better.
  • You can serve these warm or at room temperature, so there's no last-minute panic before guests arrive.
02 -
  • Don't overbake the zucchini or it will collapse under the weight of the toppings, and you'll end up with a soggy mess instead of a neat little bite.
  • Adding the basil after baking keeps it from wilting and turning brown, which I learned the hard way the first time I tried to bake it all together.
03 -
  • Use a pastry brush to coat the zucchini evenly with olive oil, which helps them brown nicely without drying out.
  • If your balsamic glaze is too thick, warm it gently in the microwave for a few seconds so it drizzles smoothly over the bites.
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