Easy Caprese Appetizer

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The hot summer months bring together family and friends, and if yours are like mine, those family and friends want to eat! I’m always looking for quick and easy appetizer options that don’t heat up my kitchen. And a refreshing dish like my Easy Caprese Appetizer that includes fresh produce and a soft, creamy cheese is perfect for large or small crowds alike. 

Since you’re here for a quick and easy recipe, I’ll jump right in so you can get back to the fun with your crew.

Start by slicing a tomato. You’ll see in the pictures that I used a larger slicing tomato because they were ripe in my state and looked amazing! I sliced mine into quarter-inch slices and then each slice in quarters. If you use smaller tomatoes, like Romas, you may not need to cut the slices into quarters.

Did you notice that I didn’t tell you how many tomatoes you’ll need? That’s because this will depend on the size of your crowd and the size of your tomatoes. I can usually serve about six people with one slicing tomato.

Next, slice the mozzarella into quarter-inch slices as well. Again, you’ll want these to be bite sized, similar to the tomatoes. You’ll also want the same number of mozzarella and tomato slices because you’ll need to layer these later.

Now for the basil. You may not need to do much to these leaves other than rinse. Just tear any larger leaves into smaller pieces if needed. Otherwise, your prep is completed, and now you’re ready to assemble the dish.

Take a slice of tomato, then a fresh basil leaf, and finally a piece of mozzarella. Layer the ingredients in this order over and over until you’ve filled your serving dish. Salt and pepper as you like.

The final step is to drizzle the layers with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinaigrette. Be careful here. I have managed to over-drizzle (is that a word?) in the past, and it’s just not as light and fresh tasting if you do that. 

Ok! That’s it. Grab the platter, and take it out to your family and friends. You’re work is complete! They’ll love it, and you won’t be stuck in the kitchen all day.