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)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Puff Pastry | 230g |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 120g |
| Mini Mozzarella Balls | 120g |
| Fresh Basil | To taste |
| Dried Oregano | To taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | To taste |
| Fine Salt | To taste |
| Butter | To grease |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry Bases
- 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.
- Butter six tartlet pans of the same diameter (12cm) and place each round of puff pastry into the pans, ensuring the edges fit snugly.
- 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
- Lay a piece of parchment paper over each tartlet and fill with baking beans or dried beans for the blind-baking process.
- 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
- While the tartlet shells bake, prepare the filling. Wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half.
- Halve the mini mozzarella balls as well, ensuring each piece is bite-sized.
Step 4: Assemble the Tartlets
- Once the tartlet bases have cooled slightly, remove them from the pans and carefully peel away the parchment paper with the baking beans.
- 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
- Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the top, add a pinch of salt, and sprinkle with oregano.
- Finish with fresh basil leaves for an added burst of flavor and a touch of green.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- These Caprese tartlets can be served warm or at room temperature, making them a perfect appetizer for any occasion.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
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.
