Fresh Caprese Stuffed Avocados with Easy 5-Minute Balsamic Reduction
A quick and easy recipe combining creamy avocados, fresh Caprese salad ingredients, and a sweet balsamic reduction for a light, flavorful meal or appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 ripe but firm avocados
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella, diced or small mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 10–12 fresh basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the Balsamic Reduction: Pour 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar and 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar into a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it reduce for about 8-10 minutes until thickened to a syrupy consistency. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Prep the Avocados: Carefully slice the avocados in half lengthwise and remove the pits. Using a spoon, gently scoop out some of the flesh to create a small cavity, about 1-2 tablespoons worth, leaving enough avocado around the edges to hold its shape. Reserve the scooped avocado for the filling.
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, diced fresh mozzarella, torn basil leaves, the reserved avocado flesh, and 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Gently toss everything together, trying not to mash the avocado too much.
- Assemble the Stuffed Avocados: Spoon the Caprese mixture generously into each avocado half, mounding it slightly. Arrange on a serving platter or individual plates.
- Finish with Balsamic Drizzle: Using a spoon or a small squeeze bottle, drizzle the balsamic reduction evenly over the stuffed avocados. Add an extra sprinkle of fresh basil or cracked black pepper if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
Do not overcook the balsamic reduction to avoid burning. Prepare the filling gently to keep textures distinct. Keep balsamic reduction separate if prepping ahead to prevent avocado browning. Use ripe but firm avocados for best texture. Optionally brush avocado flesh with lemon juice to slow browning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed avocado ha
- Calories: 235
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 8
Keywords: Caprese, avocado, balsamic reduction, easy recipe, quick appetizer, fresh, vegetarian, gluten-free