Once your salad is mixed, it’s time to prepare the avocados. Carefully cut each avocado in half and remove the pit. I like to scoop out a little bit of the flesh to create more room for the filling—just be careful not to go too deep! The creamy avocado is the perfect base for the flavorful mixture you just created. Now, spoon a generous amount of the tomato-mozzarella mixture into each avocado half, making them look as inviting as possible.
Now, let’s get to the best part! Drizzle any remaining balsamic vinegar and a little olive oil over the stuffed avocados for added flavor. This step is essential as it enhances the richness of the creamy avocado and ties all those yummy flavors together. For a finishing touch, you can garnish with extra fresh basil leaves. These little beauties are best served right away, although they can be prepped in advance if you’re short on time.
Remember to adjust the seasoning according to your tastes. Sometimes I like to add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat; it’s all about personal preference.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe three ways before settling on my favorite method. Using fresh mozzarella balls versus shredded mozzarella changed the texture significantly; I found the balls added a delightful creaminess that complemented the avocado perfectly. Also, if you can find heirloom tomatoes, definitely use them! Their varied flavors and beautiful colors make a stunning presentation.
One tip I swear by is to choose avocados that are perfectly ripe—soft but not mushy. If they’re too firm, they won’t scoop out well. If they’re overripe, they may turn brown and affect the dish’s aesthetics. Best to check a day in advance so you have the perfect ones ready to go!
Lastly, don’t skip out on that drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar at the end. It not only adds flavor but also brings a beautiful sheen to the dish, making it even more appetizing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake I made the first time I made these was using overly firm avocados. They just didn’t have the creaminess I was hoping for, and scooping them out was a bit of a workout! Make sure to give them a gentle squeeze at the store to find the perfect avocados for your stuffed treats. (See the next page below to continue…)