Caprese Crostini with a Balsamic Drizzle

Caprese Crostini with a Balsamic Drizzle

Last night for dinner I decided to make some crostini to go with our meal.  Since I had some grape tomatoes, and leftover packages of fresh mozzarella and basil, I decided to jazz up my crostini a bit, and make Caprese Crostini with a Balsamic Drizzle.  Simple, delicious and elegant! 

If you’re not familiar with the term “Caprese” [kuh-prey-zey] Italian:  of or in the style of Capri – It’s a dish prepared oftentimes as a salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil leaves, drizzled with olive oil.

My version however is on crostini, making this perfect to serve for company as an elegant appetizer, or with a meal. Drizzled with a Balsamic Reduction adds a slight sweetness to the appetizer taking it right over the top.
I hope you’ll try this recipe……..

Caprese Crostini with a Balsamic Drizzle

Ingredients:

  • 1 baguette loaf, sliced
  • 1 container grape tomatoes, halved
  • 6 basil leaves, cut chiffonade style
  • fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • extra-virgin olive oil
  • kosher salt
  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar

Directions:

  1. Caprese Crostini: Lay sliced baguette on a foil lined sheet pan and brush one side with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt.
  2. Place in a preheated 425F degree oven for about 15 minutes or until edges are golden brown.  Remove from oven.
  3. Add slices of fresh mozzarella on each slice of bread, top with tomato halves and sprinkle with basil chiffonade.  Place back into oven for approximately 5 minutes or until the cheese has melted.  Remove from oven.
  4. Drizzle with Balsamic Reduction and serve.
  5. Balsamic Reduction: Add 1 cup Balsamic Vinegar to a saucepan and bring so a boil.  Reduce heat, and simmer for approximately 30 minutes or until vinegar has reduced to 1/2 cup.  Vinegar will be thick like syrup. Allow to cool completely then add to squeeze bottle, cover tip, and store indefinitely.

Caprese Crostini with a Balsamic Drizzle

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18 comments

  1. I like Caprese anything. I’ve had Caprese-style crostini but it’s not something I make myself. I should! This looks great. Thanks.

  2. Love this gorgeous crostini, it is both colourful and delicious 🙂

    Cheers
    Choc Chip Uru

  3. Oh yeah…my type of appetizer! That balsamic drizzle has to be! 🙂 ela

  4. I am a huge fan of Caprese. These crostini look so beautiful and scrummy!

  5. I could make a meal out of these gorgeous crostini. I LOVE this!

    • You and me both. Oftentimes I have other dishes waiting for me but I end up filling up on the crostini because it’s always so good and satisfying. I hope you’ll try this.

  6. I’m with Maureen! This could easily be my dinner…and I’d be thrilled with every bite!

  7. Your crostini look terrific and have me dreaming of summer tomatoes from my garden.

  8. Yum Yum Yum!!! I wish I could have it right away!

  9. I’ve never made a balsamic reduction but every time I see one, I want to make it. I love that you topped these Caprese Crostini with it. This is a great lunch or party appetizer. Thanks for sharing Vicki!

  10. This looks absolutely delightful. I love a good balsamic reduction over just about anything. Great recipe Vicki.

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