These Caprese Stuffed Avocados are a refreshing, nutrient-packed twist on a classic Italian salad.
Creamy avocado halves are filled with juicy cherry tomatoes, tender mozzarella, and fresh basil, then finished with a balsamic drizzle.
High in healthy fats, fiber, and plant-based protein, this quick, no-cook recipe is perfect for busy weekdays, light lunches, or a satisfying appetizer that’s both flavorful and wholesome.
5-Minute Creamy Caprese Stuffed Avocado
Equipment
- 1 cutting board
- 1 sharp knife
- 1 small spoon
- 1 serving plate
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados halved and pitted
- 8 mozzarella balls bocconcini, whole
- 3 fresh basil leaves chopped
- 6 cherry tomatoes halved
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Select and Prepare the Avocados: Begin by choosing two perfectly ripe avocados—look for fruit that is slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. Wash the avocados thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or residue from the skin. Once cleaned, carefully slice each avocado in half lengthwise using a sharp knife. Gently twist the two halves in opposite directions to separate them. Remove the pit from each half with care, either by scooping it out with a spoon or using the tip of the knife.
- Hollow Out the Avocado Centers: To create more space for the filling, scoop out a small portion of the avocado flesh from each half using a spoon. Be careful not to remove too much—you want to leave a sturdy shell to hold the ingredients. Place the scooped avocado in a small bowl if you’d like to enjoy it later or mix it into a salad. This step ensures that each avocado half has a generous cavity for the Caprese filling.
- Prepare the Mozzarella Balls: While preparing the avocados, gather eight mozzarella balls (bocconcini). If they are large, you can cut them in half for easier fitting. Make sure the mozzarella is fresh and soft; fresh mozzarella adds a creamy texture that perfectly complements the avocado. Pat them gently with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, which will help prevent the filling from becoming soggy.
- Slice the Cherry Tomatoes: Take six fresh cherry tomatoes and rinse them under cool water. Using a sharp knife, cut each tomato in half. This not only makes them bite-sized but also releases their natural juices, adding vibrant flavor to the avocado filling. Arrange the tomato halves in a small bowl to keep them ready for assembly.
- Chop Fresh Basil Leaves: Select three fresh basil leaves and rinse them under water. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. Stack the leaves, roll them gently, and slice into thin strips or small pieces. Chopping the basil finely allows its aromatic flavor to evenly distribute over the filling, adding a fragrant herbal note to every bite.
- Assemble the Avocado Halves: Take one avocado half and carefully place it on a serving plate, hollow side up. Begin by placing two mozzarella balls inside the cavity, arranging them so they nestle snugly. Next, add one or two cherry tomato halves around the mozzarella, layering them neatly. Repeat this process with the remaining avocado halves, mozzarella, and cherry tomatoes. Aim for a balanced, colorful presentation that highlights the contrast between the creamy avocado, white mozzarella, and bright red tomatoes.
- Add the Basil Garnish: Sprinkle the chopped basil evenly over each stuffed avocado half. Be generous but not overwhelming—just enough to infuse the fresh herbal flavor into each bite. The green basil not only adds taste but also creates a visually appealing contrast that enhances the overall presentation.
- Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: Finish the dish by drizzling balsamic glaze over each stuffed avocado. Use a thin, steady stream to lightly coat the top, allowing it to cascade over the mozzarella and tomatoes. The glaze adds a tangy sweetness that complements the creamy avocado and juicy tomatoes beautifully. If you prefer, you can also serve the glaze on the side for dipping.
- Serve Immediately: Caprese Stuffed Avocados are best enjoyed fresh, so serve them right away. Place the stuffed avocado halves on a platter or individual plates for a stunning presentation. The combination of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors makes this a quick, satisfying appetizer or side dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or entertaining guests.
- Optional Tips for Extra Flavor: For added depth, consider sprinkling a pinch of sea salt or freshly cracked black pepper over the top before serving. You can also experiment with a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to enhance the richness of the avocado. For a party platter, try adding extra mozzarella balls or tomato halves around the avocado for an attractive arrangement.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm avocados to ensure the halves hold their shape and don’t collapse under the filling.
- Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) work best; avoid pre-shredded cheese, which can alter the texture.
- Cherry tomatoes should be firm and juicy—overripe tomatoes may release too much liquid.
- Chop basil just before serving to preserve its vibrant color and fresh aroma.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze at the last minute to prevent the avocado from browning.
- This recipe is naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, and low in carbs, making it versatile for many diets.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Flavor
The key to a show-stopping Caprese Stuffed Avocado lies in the quality and freshness of your ingredients.
Choose avocados that are perfectly ripe, soft enough to scoop but firm enough to hold the filling.
Opt for fresh mozzarella instead of pre-packaged shredded cheese—its creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the avocado.
When slicing cherry tomatoes, try to make the cut even so the presentation looks tidy and appealing.
Finally, add the balsamic glaze and basil just before serving to maximize flavor, aroma, and visual appeal.
A light sprinkling of salt and freshly cracked black pepper can elevate the flavors even further.
Serving Suggestions for Every Occasion
These stuffed avocados are highly versatile and work beautifully as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light lunch.
Serve them on a large platter for a party or individually for a casual lunch at home.
Pair with crisp white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing contrast, or serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
You can also add a slice of crusty bread or a handful of mixed greens to make the dish more filling while keeping it light and fresh.
Storage Tips to Maintain Freshness
Caprese Stuffed Avocados are best enjoyed immediately due to the avocado’s tendency to brown.
If you need to prepare them slightly ahead, squeeze a small amount of lemon or lime juice over the avocado flesh to slow oxidation.
Cover each avocado half tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 6 hours.
Avoid adding the balsamic glaze until ready to serve, as it can cause the avocado and tomatoes to become watery over time.
Leftover ingredients such as mozzarella, tomatoes, or basil can be stored separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While you can prep the ingredients ahead, it’s best to assemble the stuffed avocados just before serving.
Avocados brown quickly, so pre-assembly may affect both appearance and flavor. Keep ingredients separate until ready to serve.
2. What can I use instead of balsamic glaze?
If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can drizzle a mixture of balsamic vinegar and a touch of honey or maple syrup. This will give a similar sweet-tangy flavor.
3. Are there alternatives to mozzarella balls?
Yes! You can substitute fresh ricotta or feta cubes for a slightly different texture and tang.
Goat cheese also works well if you prefer a stronger flavor.
4. Can this recipe be made vegan?
Absolutely! Simply replace the mozzarella with a plant-based cheese alternative, such as vegan mozzarella or cashew cheese, while keeping the rest of the ingredients the same.
5. How can I prevent the avocados from browning?
To slow browning, squeeze a little lemon or lime juice over the avocado halves after scooping.
Keeping the avocados tightly wrapped in plastic and chilled will also help maintain their fresh color until serving.
