Description
This festive Christmas Caprese Wreath is a vibrant and fresh appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Combining cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and aromatic basil arranged in a beautiful, eye-catching wreath shape, this no-cook dish is dressed with extra virgin olive oil and drizzled with balsamic glaze. Optional garnishes like pomegranate arils, bell pepper stars, and rosemary sprigs add a seasonal touch, making it as delicious as it is decorative.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 pints (about 4 cups) cherry tomatoes
- 16 ounces (about 450g) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 2 large bunches fresh basil leaves
Dressing and Seasoning
- 1/2 cup balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- 1/4 cup pomegranate arils
- Small star-shaped cutouts from red or yellow bell pepper
- A few small sprigs of fresh rosemary
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Thoroughly wash and dry cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. Drain mozzarella balls completely and gently pat dry. If making homemade balsamic glaze, prepare it in advance and allow it to cool and thicken. Organize all prepared ingredients around your chosen serving platter to facilitate easy assembly.
- Assemble the Wreath: On a large, round serving platter, arrange the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves in an alternating pattern, forming concentric circles to create a wreath shape. Overlap and layer ingredients for a lush, full appearance, ensuring even color distribution for a visually stunning presentation.
- Dress and Season: Generously drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the entire wreath to enhance flavor and shine. Season evenly with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, ensuring each bite is perfectly balanced.
- Garnish and Serve: Artfully drizzle balsamic glaze over the entire Christmas Caprese Wreath to add a tangy sweetness. If desired, scatter pomegranate arils for a pop of color and tartness, place bell pepper stars for a festive look, or tuck in small rosemary sprigs for aromatic notes. Serve the wreath at room temperature alongside crusty bread or toothpicks. If refrigerated beforehand, allow it to sit out for 30-45 minutes to let the flavors bloom fully.
Notes
- Use fresh, high-quality mozzarella and basil for the best flavor and texture.
- Homemade balsamic glaze can be made by simmering balsamic vinegar with a bit of sugar until thickened.
- For easier serving, provide toothpicks or small forks.
- Allow the wreath to come to room temperature after refrigeration to enhance flavors.
- This recipe is best served the same day to maintain freshness of tomatoes and basil.
