Print

Caprese Wreath

Caprese Wreath
Print Recipe

The Caprese Wreath is a fresh, vibrant, and visually stunning appetizer that combines ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil in a beautiful circular arrangement. This easy-to-make dish highlights simple, seasonal ingredients and is perfect for any celebration or casual gathering, offering a light and flavorful start to your meal.

Ingredients

Produce

  • A colorful mix of fresh tomatoes (cherry, grape, heirloom) – about 2 cups total
  • Fresh basil leaves – 1 cup, whole leaves

Dairy

  • Fresh mozzarella balls or slices – 8 oz (about 225 grams)

Condiments & Seasonings

  • Extra virgin olive oil – 2 tablespoons for drizzling
  • Balsamic glaze – 2 tablespoons for drizzling
  • Sea salt – to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper – to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and pat dry. Slice larger tomatoes into rounds about ⅓ inch thick. Drain the mozzarella and slice it into pieces roughly the same size as the tomato slices. Rinse the fresh basil leaves and gently pat dry to avoid wilting.
  2. Arrange the Wreath Base: On a large round serving platter, lay down alternating slices of tomato and mozzarella in a circle, overlapping slightly so the colors and textures create a beautiful ribbon effect.
  3. Add Fresh Basil Leaves: Tuck whole basil leaves between the tomato and mozzarella slices, distributing them evenly around the wreath to add bursts of aromatic green.
  4. Drizzle Olive Oil and Balsamic Glaze: Generously drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the entire wreath, followed by a careful zigzag of balsamic glaze to add sweetness, tang, and visual contrast.
  5. Season to Taste: Finish by sprinkling sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper evenly over the wreath, enhancing all the natural flavors for a harmonious taste experience.

Notes

  • Use ripe but firm tomatoes to help the wreath hold its shape and maintain structure.
  • Pat mozzarella dry before slicing to reduce excess moisture and prevent sogginess.
  • Chill all ingredients beforehand to enhance freshness and flavor when serving.
  • Apply balsamic glaze sparingly; too much can overpower the delicate flavors.
  • Assemble close to serving time for the freshest and most vibrant presentation.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese wreath, Caprese salad, mozzarella appetizer, tomato appetizer, basil appetizer, fresh Italian appetizer, easy summer appetizer, no cook appetizer

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/caprese-wreath/