Mini Caprese Tartlets with Fresh Basil and Mozzarella

Caprese Tartlets: A Delightful Italian Appetizer

Caprese tartlets are a delightful twist on the classic Caprese salad, perfect for a light and flavorful appetizer. With a crispy puff pastry base, fresh cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a dash of oregano, these tartlets offer a burst of Italian flavors in every bite. They’re a fantastic choice for gatherings, dinner parties, or just a tasty snack when you want something fresh and satisfying.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry Bases

1. Start by unrolling the puff pastry and cutting out six 12cm rounds using a cookie cutter or a glass. Set aside the excess dough for another use.
2. Butter six tartlet pans of the same diameter (12cm) and place each round of puff pastry into the pans, ensuring the edges fit snugly.
3. Use a fork to prick the base of each tartlet to prevent it from puffing up too much while baking.

Step 2: Blind Bake the Tartlet Shells

4. Lay a piece of parchment paper over each tartlet and fill with baking beans or dried beans for the blind-baking process.
5. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the tartlet bases for about 10 minutes, or until lightly golden.

Step 3: Prepare the Caprese Filling

6. While the tartlet shells bake, prepare the filling. Wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half.
7. Halve the mini mozzarella balls as well, ensuring each piece is bite-sized.

Step 4: Assemble the Tartlets

8. Once the tartlet bases have cooled slightly, remove them from the pans and carefully peel away the parchment paper with the baking beans.
9. Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls alternately on top of the pastry shells. Make sure to distribute them evenly across each tartlet.

Step 5: Season and Serve

10. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the top, add a pinch of salt, and sprinkle with oregano.
11. Finish with fresh basil leaves for an added burst of flavor and a touch of green.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

12. These Caprese tartlets can be served warm or at room temperature, making them a perfect appetizer for any occasion.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

These Caprese tartlets are a light, delicious option that combines the freshness of summer with the heartiness of puff pastry, making them the perfect snack or appetizer for your next gathering.