Description
This Caprese Flatbread is a quick and delicious twist on the classic Italian Caprese salad. Featuring a crispy store-bought flatbread topped with fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a balsamic glaze drizzle, it makes a perfect appetizer or light meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Flatbread Base
- 1 flatbread (store-bought)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
Toppings
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced or torn
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasonings
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 teaspoons balsamic glaze, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the optimal temperature for baking the flatbread evenly and melting the cheese nicely.
- Prepare the flatbread: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking, then place the store-bought flatbread on it for an easy clean-up and to provide a stable surface for baking.
- Brush with olive oil and garlic: Generously brush the entire surface of the flatbread with olive oil, extending all the way to the edges. Next, evenly distribute the minced garlic on top to infuse a savory base flavor.
- Add the cheese: Arrange the sliced or torn fresh mozzarella evenly over the garlic and olive oil layer, ensuring good coverage for melty, gooey bites in every slice.
- Layer the tomatoes and seasonings: Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes across the top, then sprinkle with dried Italian seasonings to add aromatic herb flavors. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
- Bake the flatbread: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly, and the flatbread edges turn a dark golden brown, indicating crispiness.
- Optional broil for extra crisp: If you prefer a crisper flatbread, broil for 1-2 additional minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning as broiling works quickly.
- Add fresh basil and finish: Remove from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves for aromatic freshness. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy your Caprese Flatbread!
Notes
- Using store-bought flatbread makes this recipe quick and convenient.
- You can substitute cherry tomatoes with grape or heirloom tomatoes if preferred.
- For a spicier twist, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before baking.
- Make sure to watch closely if you broil to avoid burning the flatbread.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in a toaster oven for crispness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Caprese Flatbread, Italian flatbread, easy appetizer, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, balsamic glaze
