Description

A quick, vegetarian-friendly skillet dish featuring fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, finished with a balsamic glaze. Perfect for camping or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained and patted dry
1 lb ripe tomatoes (Roma or vine-ripened), sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
2 cups fresh baby spinach
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup balsamic glaze
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Wash and pat dry tomatoes, basil, and spinach. Slice tomatoes into 1/4-inch rounds. Drain and pat dry mozzarella balls. Mince garlic.
Heat a large 12-inch skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium heat. Add olive oil and heat until shimmering.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
Arrange tomato slices in a single layer in the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to char, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add baby spinach to the skillet and stir gently for about 1 minute until wilted.
Place mozzarella balls on top of the tomato and spinach mixture. Sprinkle torn basil leaves over the cheese.
Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
Remove the lid and drizzle balsamic glaze over the dish in a zigzag pattern. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if using.
Let sit for 30 seconds to meld flavors, then serve immediately.

Notes

Pat mozzarella dry to prevent sogginess. Do not skip the lid as it traps steam to melt the cheese. Use medium heat to avoid burning garlic. Best served warm; do not freeze as tomatoes and mozzarella do not freeze well.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 skillet portion
Calories: 350
Sugar: 8
Sodium: 450
Fat: 22
Saturated Fat: 10
Carbohydrates: 12
Fiber: 3
Protein: 20

Keywords: caprese skillet, camping dinner, vegetarian recipes, one-pot meals, balsamic glaze, fresh mozzarella, quick dinners, gluten-free