Candy Cane Caprese Board Recipe
This Candy Cane Caprese Board is a festive and visually stunning appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Featuring alternating slices of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil arranged in the shape of a candy cane, this dish combines classic Italian flavors with a seasonal presentation. A generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, along with freshly ground salt and pepper, enhances the natural taste of the ingredients, making it a simple yet elegant starter that requires no cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Caprese Ingredients
- 2–3 medium tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 2–3 balls of fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, preferably large leaves
Seasoning
- Extra virgin olive oil, a generous drizzle
- Freshly ground salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your serving board: Choose a large serving board or tray to have enough space to arrange the ingredients in the candy cane shape.
- Arrange the ingredients: Starting at the top short end of the board, alternate slices of tomato, mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves. Continue this pattern until you reach the bottom of the board or run out of ingredients, forming a curved candy cane shape.
- Season the board: Once arranged, sprinkle freshly ground salt and black pepper evenly over the tomatoes and mozzarella.
- Drizzle with olive oil: Generously drizzle high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the entire arrangement to enhance flavor and give a glossy finish.
- Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed right away while the ingredients are fresh and at their optimal temperature and texture.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm tomatoes to ensure clean slicing and good texture.
- Fresh mozzarella works best; drain any excess liquid before slicing to prevent sogginess.
- Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and a fruity aroma; don’t skip the drizzle.
- For added flavor, consider a light balsamic glaze drizzle just before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature according to preference. Assemble shortly before serving to keep basil fresh and avoid wilting.
Keywords: Candy Cane Caprese Board, Christmas appetizer, Caprese salad, festive appetizer, tomato mozzarella basil, no-cook appetizer, Italian appetizer
Find it online: https://dishedbydana.com/candy-cane-caprese-board-recipe/
