Chopped Caprese Toast
This Chopped Caprese Toast features fresh ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil layered on crispy toasted bread and finished with quality extra virgin olive oil. It's a simple yet elegant appetizer that's perfect for entertaining, quick lunches, or light dinners any time of year.
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Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2-3 large tomatoes ripe and juicy
- 1 (8-ounce) block fresh mozzarella cheese or use pre-made mozzarella balls if preferred
- 2 bunches fresh basil ideally sweet Italian basil
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil high-quality oil makes a difference
- to taste salt, pepper, and garlic powder
- 8-12 slices bread for serving sourdough, French, or any crusty baguette
- optional Balsamic glaze for a slightly sweet finishing drizzle
- optional Red pepper flakes if you prefer a hint of heat
Instructions
- Chop the Tomatoes: Slice your ripe tomatoes in half and gently remove excess seeds and juice using a small spoon, then finely chop the tomato flesh into bite-sized pieces. Place the chopped tomatoes in a fine-mesh strainer and let them drain for about 5 minutes to remove excess liquid, which prevents soggy toast.
- Prepare the Mozzarella: Remove the mozzarella from its liquid and pat it completely dry with paper towels. Dice the cheese into small cubes roughly the same size as your tomato pieces, about 1/2 inch each.
- Tear the Basil: Gently tear fresh basil leaves by hand into small pieces, discarding any thick stems. Don't chop basil with a knife, as this can cause browning and loss of flavor.
- Slice the Bread: Cut your sourdough or baguette into 1/2-inch thick diagonal slices, creating roughly 8 to 12 slices depending on the loaf size.
- Toast the Slices: Arrange bread slices on a baking sheet and brush lightly with about 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil on both sides. Toast in a 375-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 5 to 7 minutes until golden and crispy, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the toasted bread from the oven and let it cool for 1 to 2 minutes so the toppings don't melt excessively.
- Layer the Base: Arrange your toasted bread slices on a serving platter or cutting board. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil evenly across all the slices.
- Add the Filling: Distribute the drained chopped tomatoes evenly across each slice, then top with the diced mozzarella and torn basil leaves.
- Season and Finish: Sprinkle each toast with a pinch of salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and just a hint of garlic powder to taste. Add optional balsamic glaze if desired.
- Serve Immediately: Serve your Chopped Caprese Toast right away while the bread is still warm and crispy for the best texture and flavor.