Simple Caprese Bites Appetizer Recipe

Often, when it comes to dinner parties, simple really is best! So, if you're expecting a large crowd at a dinner party you're hosting, consider serving this easy to prepare, yet totally delicious appetizer recipe.

An Italian classic, Caprese bites have it all - they're sweet, salty, crunchy, creamy, savory and fresh. Best of all, it's simple to get all of those great flavors and textures together in one easy appetizer for a large group!

Ingredients:

Handfuls of assorted yellow and red cherry and grape tomatoes

1 pound fresh mozzarella cheese (in light salt water), drained and cut into slices

1/4 cup olive oil

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

fresh ground black pepper

fresh basil leaves (cut if large)

2 tablespoons butter

Olives (optional)

Directions:

Place the tomatoes and cheese into a bowl, then set aside. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, salt and pepper. Pour the oil mixture over the tomatoes and mozzarella and toss gently to combine.

Place the tomato mixture in the refrigerator while you prepare the balsamic reduction.

Pour your balsamic vinegar into a small pot with butter and simmer on medium-low heat until it is reduced by half. Stir constantly and do not let it come to a rolling boil. The reduction will be thicker and slightly sweet.

On your skewers, place an olive, a tomato, a basil leaf, a piece of cheese, a tomato, another slice of cheese, another basil leaf and another olive. Repeat until you have no more ingredients left. Drizzle the balsamic reduction over skewers evenly in a pan and serve!