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Celebrate the holidays with this easy Christmas appetizer! I give the classic caprese salad a festive makeover by arranging it in the shape of a stocking.
Quick to prepare and virtually foolproof, this recipe is the perfect festive centerpiece and makes a great addition to any appetizer spread.
I like to pair it with other crowd-pleasing options like my Christmas tree rolls, Christmas veggie tray, and cheese board Christmas tree. However, it’s just as impressive on its own. Serve it with crusty baguette pieces, and let all your guests assemble their own bites. Everyone will be raving about this unique starter by the end of the night!
Recipe Tip
Season well, then drizzle with olive oil and a sweet balsamic glaze to make all the flavors pop!
Easy Christmas Appetizer Ingredients
Please be sure to scroll down to the recipe card below for the complete details!
- Fresh mozzarella: Use creamy, yet firm mozzarella balls that can be sliced without breaking.
- Tomatoes: Plum tomatoes, beefsteak tomatoes, or similarly large, preferably sweet tomatoes.
- Fresh basil: You’ll need whole basil leaves. I like to arrange them in clusters.
- Baguette: French baguette, ciabatta, or similar. Use fresh, toasted, baked, or grilled in a pan, as you prefer.
- Seasoning: Add flaky sea salt, black pepper, olive oil, and balsamic glaze to taste.
How to Make an Easy Christmas Appetizer
- Slice the tomatoes and arrange them in a stocking shape on a large board or platter.
- Cut the mozzarella and place them up at the top of the platter.
- Place fresh basil leaves in the space between the mozzarella and tomatoes.
- Season well. Top with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Serve.
Tips for Success
- Drain the mozzarella slices on a paper towel before assembly.
- Wait to season and dress the caprese until right before serving.
- If possible, remove the basil leaves in clusters for a vibrant display.
Serving Suggestion
This appetizer also doubles as a delicious side salad at any meal.
Possible Variations
- Mozzarella: Swap for other cheeses such as slices of goat cheese, Halloumi, burrata, cheddar chunks, Gouda, etc.
- Tomatoes: Try cherry or grape tomatoes, figs, pomegranate arils, strawberries, or bacon.
- Fresh basil: Or mint.
- Baguette: Sourdough, crackers, crostini, or my easy no-knead focaccia.
How to Store Leftovers
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and enjoy within 2 days.
FAQs
You can prepare this dish 1-2 hours in advance. Keep the board covered in the fridge. Season and dress the appetizer just before serving.
Yes, place the tomato slices in a wreath shape with the mozzarella slices in between or on the inside of the wreath. Sprinkle with basil and season well.
35 x 25 cm (14 x 10 inches).
More Festive Platters
Christmas
Christmas Tree Sandwiches
Christmas
Christmas Party Appetizers
Christmas
Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board
Christmas
Christmas Wreath Salad
If you make this recipe or any other recipe on Foodbites, then I would love to hear from you! Please feel free to leave a comment and rating below.
Easy Christmas Appetizer
Ingredients
- 4 fresh mozzarella balls
- 6 tomatoes
- fresh basil leaves
- 1 baguette, to serve
- sea salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Slice the tomatoes.
- Arrange them in a stocking shape on a big platter or chopping board.
- Now, slice the mozzarella and place these above the tomatoes.
- Stick the basil leaves between the mozzarella and the tomatoes.
- Sprinkle with sea salt and pepper (plus olive oil and balsamic glaze if you like).
- Serve with slices of baguette.
Video
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
