Description
A fresh and vibrant appetizer featuring ripe avocados stuffed with a classic tomato bruschetta mix, topped with balsamic glaze, fresh basil, and shaved Parmesan cheese. This no-cook, quick recipe is perfect for a light snack or elegant starter.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Bruschetta Filling
- 2 large ripe Roma tomatoes, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to season, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
Avocados & Toppings
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled, seeded and halved
- Fresh basil leaves to serve (optional)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (store bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
Balsamic Reduction (optional)
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons light brown sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Bruschetta Filling: In a bowl, combine the finely chopped Roma tomatoes, red onion, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well to evenly combine and allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare Avocados: Peel, seed, and halve the ripe avocados. Arrange the avocado halves on a serving plate along with fresh basil leaves, if using.
- Stuff Avocados: Spoon the tomato bruschetta mixture evenly into each avocado half, filling the hollow created by the seed.
- Top and Serve: Drizzle each stuffed avocado with balsamic glaze. Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil and shaved Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and best texture.
- Make Balsamic Reduction (Optional): In a small saucepan over high heat, combine balsamic vinegar and light brown sugar (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-8 minutes until thickened into a glaze. If not using sugar, simmer plain balsamic vinegar for 12-15 minutes on low heat until reduced and syrupy.
Notes
- Use ripe avocados for creamy texture and best flavor.
- The balsamic glaze can be store-bought or homemade using the reduction method provided.
- This dish is best served immediately to prevent the avocados from browning.
- To keep avocados from browning if making ahead, brush with a little lemon or lime juice.
- For a variation, add diced mozzarella or substitute Parmesan with another hard cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 avocado half with filling
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 7mg
