Transform your next gathering with the charm and freshness of a Ladybug Caprese Salad!
This delightful appetizer combines the classic flavors of juicy fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, but with an adorable twist — each bite-sized “ladybug” is almost too cute to eat.
Perfect for parties and picnics this dish is as fun to make as it is to serve.
Ready to impress your guests? Be sure to check out all of our easy appetizer recipes for more inspiration!
To make these ladybug appetizers, layer mozzarella slices with a sprinkle of sea salt and fresh basil leaves. Top each with cherry tomato halves, slit slightly to resemble ladybug wings, and add a black olive piece for the head. Use balsamic glaze to create spots on the tomato backs.
Yes, but it’s best to add the tomato “ladybugs” and balsamic glaze right before serving to maintain freshness and appearance.
Halve the tomatoes and carefully slit each half from the bottom center outward to create the wing effect without fully separating the halves.
Also try these recipes to round out your menu. Each are bursting with fresh, delicious flavors!
- Let the slow cooker do the work with this flavorful Bruschetta Pasta, a perfect blend of fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.
- Keep things simple and delicious poolside with our favorite recipes for Easy Finger Food for Pool Party.
- Enjoy side dish recipes that pair beautifully with any main course.
How to Make Ladybug Caprese
Hosting a party? This Ladybug Caprese Salad is a crowd-pleaser with its fun look and fresh flavors!
Ingredients
- bocconcini or mozzarella sliced
- sea salt
- fresh basil
- 8 cherry or grape tomatoes
- 4 pitted black olives, cut in quarters
- balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Place a slice of mozzarella on a serving tray and sprinkle with a small pinch of sea salt.
- Top the mozzarella slices with a sweet basil leaf.
- Cut the tomato in half from top to bottom.
- Then make a small slit in each half to create the ladybug’s wings.
- Place the cherry tomato half on the basil.
- Place the olive piece on the lady bug's body too create a head.
- Use a decorating tip or toothpick to place dots of a little balsamic glaze onto the backs of the ladybugs.