Description
Crisp phyllo cups cradle classic caprese flavors in this elegant Italian-inspired appetizer. Delicate layers of pastry hold fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, inviting you to savor each delightful bite of Mediterranean charm.
Ingredients
Scale
Caprese Phyllo Cups
Vegetables and Herbs:
- 15 cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
Cheese and Dairy:
- 15 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
Base and Seasoning:
- 1 package (15 count) pre-made phyllo shells
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 375F (190C), creating an ideal environment for transforming delicate phyllo shells into crisp, golden vessels.
- Carefully arrange phyllo shells on a baking sheet, allowing them to toast and develop a light, airy crunch for approximately 5 minutes. Set aside to cool and stabilize.
- Prepare the vibrant filling by gently combining halved cherry tomatoes and miniature mozzarella balls, delicately coating them with fragrant olive oil, then seasoning with a precise blend of salt and pepper.
- Meticulously construct each phyllo cup by nestling a single mozzarella ball and a corresponding tomato half into the crisp shell, crowning each morsel with a tender, aromatic basil leaf.
- Moments before presenting these elegant appetizers, create a dramatic flourish by drizzling rich balsamic glaze across the filled shells, ensuring the phyllo remains wonderfully crisp and the flavors are at their peak of intensity.
- Serve immediately, allowing guests to experience the perfect harmony of textures and Mediterranean-inspired flavors in each delightful bite.
Notes
- Choose fresh, high-quality mozzarella and ripe cherry tomatoes for the most vibrant flavor and texture.
- Ensure phyllo shells are completely cooled before filling to maintain their delicate crispiness and prevent sogginess.
- Toast phyllo shells just before serving to keep them crunchy and prevent them from becoming soft or stale.
- Prepare ingredients right before serving to maintain the fresh, bright taste of basil and prevent wilting or discoloration.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 15
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg