Zucchini Caprese Bites (Printer-friendly)

Zucchini slices topped with mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, and a balsamic drizzle.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
02 - 16 cherry tomatoes, halved
03 - 16 small fresh basil leaves, or torn to fit

→ Dairy

04 - 16 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or 1 large ball, sliced into 16 pieces

→ Seasonings

05 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
06 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Garnish

08 - 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze

# Directions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Arrange zucchini rounds on the baking sheet. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil and season evenly with salt and pepper.
03 - Bake zucchini rounds for 8 to 10 minutes until tender but firm. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
04 - Top each zucchini round with a slice of mozzarella and a basil leaf, then place a cherry tomato half cut side down on top.
05 - Drizzle balsamic glaze over the assembled bites just before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The warm zucchini contrasts beautifully with cool mozzarella and sweet tomatoes
  • Everything comes together in under thirty minutes with almost zero effort
02 -
  • Overcooking the zucchini makes them weep and turn the whole plate watery
  • Patting mozzarella dry before topping keeps each bite neat and easy to eat
03 -
  • Rub a cut garlic clove over the oiled zucchini before baking for subtle depth
  • Finish with flaky salt right before serving for texture contrast
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