Caprese Stuffed Avocado Fresh

Featured in: Salads and Dressings

This dish brings together creamy avocados, sweet cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil for an irresistible taste of summer. The filling is quickly tossed with olive oil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, then scooped generously into avocado halves. It’s a visually appealing, nutritious option that’s simple to prepare, satisfying for lunch, or ideal as a refreshing starter. Each bite offers creamy, bright, and herby flavors, enhanced by the tangy finish of balsamic.

punchofyummy
Updated on Fri, 27 Jun 2025 15:37:06 GMT
A plate of food with tomatoes and avocado. Pin it
A plate of food with tomatoes and avocado. | pinchofyummy.com

Caprese stuffed avocado combines the creamy richness of ripe avocado with the classic flavors of a Caprese salad, making a light yet satisfying dish that is always a crowd—pleaser at my summer gatherings. This is my go—to recipe whenever I want something fresh yet filling without turning on the stove.

This recipe instantly became a favorite when I made it for a picnic with friends and everyone loved how effortless yet elegant it tasted. I now keep cherry tomatoes and mozzarella on hand just for this reason.

Ingredients

  • Ripe avocados: Creamy texture is essential Look for ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure They should be free of large bruises or dark spots
  • Cherry tomatoes: Juicy and sweet and they add vibrant color Choose ones that are glossy and firm for best results
  • Fresh mozzarella balls: Also known as bocconcini or ciliegine These should be soft and milky Try to buy from the deli section for better flavor
  • Fresh basil leaves: Peppery and fragrant Always use freshly chopped leaves for the brightest taste
  • Balsamic glaze: Sweet and tangy depth This thick syrup creates a signature Caprese finish Look for brands with just balsamic vinegar and little or no added sugar
  • Extra virgin olive oil: Enhances richness and helps the flavors meld together Choose a cold pressed oil with a fruity aroma
  • Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all components together Use flaky sea salt and freshly cracked pepper if possible

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Avocados:
Cut each avocado in half lengthwise and twist gently to open Remove the pit with a spoon or carefully with a knife Do not scoop out too much flesh so the shell remains sturdy to hold the stuffing
Make the Caprese Filling:
In a large mixing bowl toss together the halved cherry tomatoes halved mozzarella balls and chopped fresh basil This allows the flavors to marry evenly
Dress the Filling:
Pour the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze evenly over the tomato and mozzarella mixture Scatter a generous pinch of salt and pepper over everything Gently toss until the ingredients are lightly coated and glistening but not soggy
Stuff the Avocados:
Spoon the Caprese filling into the hollowed avocado halves pressing lightly to mound the salad generously in each half Use any extra filling to top them for a bountiful look
Finish and Garnish:
Drizzle more balsamic glaze over the stuffed avocados Let it drip slightly over the edges for presentation Sprinkle additional chopped basil over the top if desired and serve immediately
A plate of food with tomatoes and avocado. Pin it
A plate of food with tomatoes and avocado. | pinchofyummy.com

I always look forward to the creamy bite of avocado paired with tangy tomatoes and milky mozzarella It reminds me of sharing summer patio dinners with my sisters and passing around platters of Caprese salad in every form

Storage Tips

Stuffed avocados are best enjoyed right after preparing because avocados start to brown when cut If you need to prep ahead you can mix the Caprese filling and store it in an airtight container in the fridge Slice and fill the avocados just before serving To slow browning of any leftover avocado sprinkle with lemon juice and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface

Ingredient Substitutions

Try using grape tomatoes or even ripe diced heirloom tomatoes if cherry tomatoes are not available For plant based versions use vegan mozzarella balls or cubes Fresh oregano or arugula can substitute for basil if needed For a shortcut bottled balsamic reduction works well in place of homemade glaze

Serving Suggestions

Serve as an elegant appetizer for cookouts or brunch plates Pair with crusty bread slices to capture every juicy drop The bright flavors also complement grilled chicken or seafood beautifully For parties prepare smaller avocados to serve as easy finger food

Cultural and Historical Context

Caprese salad hails from the island of Capri in Italy and stands as a tribute to simple Mediterranean ingredients By tucking those flavors into avocado a creamy fruit native to Central and South America this dish blends global influences and shows how versatile Caprese can be whether as a salad sandwich or stuffed snack

A plate of food with tomatoes and avocado. Pin it
A plate of food with tomatoes and avocado. | pinchofyummy.com

The trick to great Caprese stuffed avocado is to keep each ingredient at its freshest and let their natural flavors shine I have found that a touch more basil on top always elevates the final dish since the scent calls everyone to the table

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you keep avocados from browning after cutting?

Brush cut avocado surfaces with a little lemon juice, or assemble just before serving to maintain color and freshness.

→ What kind of mozzarella works best?

Fresh mozzarella balls, known as bocconcini or ciliegine, are ideal for this dish due to their soft texture and mild flavor.

→ Can I prepare the stuffing in advance?

The tomato and mozzarella mixture can be prepped a few hours ahead. Add basil and stuff avocados just before serving.

→ Is store-bought balsamic glaze suitable?

Yes, store-bought balsamic glaze adds a sweet, tangy note, but homemade reductions are also excellent if desired.

→ Are there good substitutions for basil?

Fresh parsley or arugula can provide a different herbaceous note if basil is not available.

Caprese Stuffed Avocado Fresh

Avocados filled with juicy tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil—finished with balsamic for a vibrant, fresh bite.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
15 Minutes
By: Amelia


Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Italian

Yield: 4 Servings (4 filled avocado halves)

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Produce

01 2 ripe avocados
02 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
03 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

→ Dairy

04 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved

→ Condiments

05 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
06 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

→ Seasoning

07 Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 01

Slice each avocado in half lengthwise and remove the pit, leaving some flesh attached to the skin to provide structure for the filling.

Step 02

In a mixing bowl, gently mix the halved cherry tomatoes, halved mozzarella balls, and chopped fresh basil.

Step 03

Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze over the mixture, then season with salt and pepper. Toss lightly to evenly coat.

Step 04

Spoon the tomato, mozzarella, and basil mixture generously into the hollowed avocado halves.

Step 05

Finish by drizzling the remaining balsamic glaze over the filled avocados and garnish with extra fresh basil if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  1. Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure—overly soft ones may not hold the filling well.

Tools You'll Need

  • Sharp knife
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (mozzarella cheese).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 303
  • Total Fat: 24.7 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 9.1 g
  • Protein: 8.3 g