Roasted Tomato Caprese Towers Recipe

Introduction

Roasted Tomato Caprese Towers are a fresh and flavorful twist on the classic Caprese salad. Layered with juicy roasted tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and ripe avocado, these towers are drizzled with balsamic glaze for a perfect balance of taste. They make an elegant appetizer or light meal that’s easy to prepare and delightful to enjoy.

The image shows a tall, layered stack of fresh vegetables and cheese on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. From bottom to top, the stack has a thick, green slice of cucumber, followed by a white slice of cheese, then a red tomato slice, and another green cucumber slice. These four layers repeat two more times, making a total of twelve layers. Each layer is evenly cut, with a smooth texture. The stack is topped with small green basil leaves and thin slices of green herbs, drizzled with dark balsamic glaze that spills slightly onto the plate, adding contrast. The lighting highlights the freshness and colors of the layers vividly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 4–5 large tomatoes, sliced into thick rounds
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • 1–2 ripe avocados, sliced (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • 1½ tbsp balsamic glaze
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for drizzle)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Step 2: Arrange the tomato slices on the baking sheet. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture evenly over the tomato slices.
  3. Step 3: Roast the tomatoes for 20–25 minutes, until the edges are lightly caramelized. Once done, allow them to cool slightly.
  4. Step 4: While the tomatoes roast, slice the fresh mozzarella and avocado. Rinse and dry the basil leaves.
  5. Step 5: To assemble the towers, start with a roasted tomato slice as the base. Top it with a slice of mozzarella, then avocado, and another tomato slice. Repeat to create 2–3 layers.
  6. Step 6: Add fresh basil leaves on top of each tower, then drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil.
  7. Step 7: Serve the Caprese towers warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.

Tips & Variations

  • For a nuttier flavor, sprinkle toasted pine nuts between the layers.
  • Substitute fresh mozzarella with burrata for a creamier texture.
  • If avocados aren’t in season, feel free to omit or replace with thin slices of cucumber or roasted eggplant.
  • Use fresh oregano instead of dried for a more vibrant herb flavor.

Storage

Store the assembled towers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the texture and flavor, add the basil and drizzle the balsamic glaze just before serving. Reheat briefly in a warm oven or enjoy chilled.

How to Serve

A tall stack with six layers sits on a white plate over a white marbled surface, starting with a thick slice of red tomato at the bottom, followed by a white mozzarella cheese slice, then a green avocado slice, another white mozzarella slice, another green avocado slice, and topped with a thick red tomato slice. The top tomato layer is garnished with thin strips of fresh green basil. The entire stack is drizzled with a dark balsamic glaze and lightly sprinkled with ground black pepper and coarse salt, with some glaze pooling around the base. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this recipe without roasting the tomatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh, thick tomato slices instead. Roasting adds a caramelized sweetness, but the dish will still be delicious with fresh tomatoes.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

To make this vegan, substitute the fresh mozzarella with a plant-based cheese alternative and ensure the balsamic glaze contains no animal products.

Print
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Roasted Tomato Caprese Towers Recipe


  • Author: Charlotte
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Delight in these elegant Roasted Tomato Caprese Towers, featuring layers of caramelized tomato slices, creamy fresh mozzarella, ripe avocado, and vibrant basil, all drizzled with a luscious balsamic glaze and olive oil. This savory, visually stunning appetizer offers a warm twist on a classic Caprese salad perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale

Tomato Preparation

  • 45 large tomatoes, sliced into thick rounds
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Tower Assembly

  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • 12 ripe avocados, sliced (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves

Finishing Touches

  • 1½ tbsp balsamic glaze
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for drizzle)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for roasting the tomatoes.
  2. Prepare Tomatoes: Arrange the thick tomato slices on the lined baking sheet. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush this flavorful mixture evenly over the tomato slices.
  3. Roast Tomatoes: Roast the prepared tomatoes in the oven for 20–25 minutes until the edges become lightly caramelized, enhancing their natural sweetness. Remove and let them cool slightly.
  4. Prepare Remaining Ingredients: While the tomatoes roast, slice the fresh mozzarella and avocados. Rinse and dry fresh basil leaves, readying them for assembly.
  5. Assemble Towers: Start with a tomato slice as the base, then layer sliced mozzarella, avocado (if using), and another tomato slice. Repeat layering to build 2–3 layers per tower for height and flavor.
  6. Add Garnishes: Top each tower with fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil to add a glossy finish and extra flavor.
  7. Serve: These Roasted Tomato Caprese Towers are best served warm or at room temperature, showcasing the perfect balance of roasted sweetness and creamy textures.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free option, substitute mozzarella with a plant-based cheese or thick slices of grilled tofu.
  • The avocado is optional but adds a rich, creamy texture that complements the acidity of the tomatoes.
  • Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and texture; Roma or heirloom varieties work great.
  • If balsamic glaze is unavailable, reduce balsamic vinegar with a bit of sugar over low heat until syrupy.
  • These towers can be prepared ahead of time and assembled just before serving to maintain freshness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: Roasted Tomato Caprese, Caprese Salad, Appetizer, Italian Recipe, Vegetarian, Balsamic Glaze, Roasted Tomatoes, Fresh Mozzarella

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