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Fresh Red White and Blue Caprese Salad Bites

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A quick and easy 4th of July appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, blueberries, and basil, drizzled with a tangy balsamic reduction. These colorful bites are fresh, light, and perfect for summer parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pint (about 250g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 8 ounces (225g) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
  • 1 cup (150g) fresh blueberries, washed and patted dry
  • 20–25 medium fresh basil leaves, washed and dried
  • ¼ cup (60ml) balsamic vinegar (for reduction)
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • Pinch of sea salt, to taste
  • Pinch of freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the balsamic reduction by pouring ¼ cup (60ml) balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a syrupy glaze, about 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
  2. Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes, blueberries, and basil leaves thoroughly.
  3. Halve the cherry tomatoes. If large, quarter them for bite-sized pieces.
  4. Drain the fresh mozzarella balls and pat dry with paper towels.
  5. Assemble each bite by threading one half cherry tomato, a folded basil leaf, one mozzarella ball, and a fresh blueberry onto a toothpick or mini skewer.
  6. Arrange the assembled bites on a serving platter. Drizzle with the balsamic reduction and extra virgin olive oil.
  7. Sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  8. Let the bites sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

If you don’t have a saucepan, you can make the balsamic reduction in a microwave-safe bowl by heating in short bursts and stirring frequently. For a vegan version, substitute fresh mozzarella with plant-based cheese or marinated tofu cubes. Assemble bites close to serving time to keep basil fresh and mozzarella moist. Adding a pinch of brown sugar to the balsamic vinegar while reducing can mellow the tanginess. Use small bocconcini or ciliegine mozzarella balls for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese salad, 4th of July appetizer, summer appetizer, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, blueberries, balsamic reduction, easy appetizer, patriotic recipe

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/fresh-red-white-and-blue-caprese-salad-bites-easy-4th-of-july-appetizer-recipe/