Crispy Caprese Flatbread… loaded with basil pesto, fresh mozzarella, grape tomatoes and balsamic vinaigrette. The perfect appetizer for any occasion!

When it comes to eating out, are you someone who likes trying new places or do you prefer the comfort of an old, familiar favorite? To be honest… I’m definitely both.

I’ll never turn down the chance to try a brand new restaurant in town, and I love working my way down a “best of Milwaukee” list. But there’s something about being a regular somewhere… and having a favorite… that I absolutely love.

One of my personal nearby favorites? Cooper’s Hawk. Possibly because I’m a wine club member and always have a bottle waiting for me… and possibly because it’s been a favorite meeting spot with friends for a while now. Either way, I can guarantee I’m there at least once a month. And one of my go-to menu items is ALWAYS the Caprese Flatbread.

Thin, crispy flatbread layered with pesto, mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, red onion, basil, and balsamic glaze. It’s simple. It’s basic. And it’s absolutely delicious! Best of all, it’s super easy to make at home with this quick 10 minute recipe! And if you’re looking for more flatbread recipes, be sure to check out my Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Flatbread and my Pesto Chicken Flatbread!

what you’ll need for this recipe

Flatbread – Flatbread is the base of this recipe, and there are a few different options to choose from. I used 1 piece of lavash bread, which is a soft, paper thin flatbread from the Middle East. You can also use pita, naan (one of my favorites) or homemade flatbread.

Pesto – Basil pesto adds amazing flavor to this recipe. I spread 2 heaping Tablespoons of pesto across the entire surface of the flatbread. My favorite brand in stores is DeLallo Simply Pesto, or I also love using my homemade Sun Dried Tomato Pesto in this recipe.

Mozzarella – I used two types of mozzarella – both 1/2 cup of shredded and 12 pearls of fresh mozzarella. I sprinkled the shredded cheese directly over the pesto and added the pearls along with the tomatoes and red onion. Feel free to substitute shredded provolone or an Italian blend in place of the shredded mozz.

Red onion – I added very thinly sliced red onion for additional flavor and texture. Although onion is not traditional in caprese, it pairs well with the other flavors in this flatbread.

Tomatoes – I used 6 grape tomatoes, cut into fourths. I prefer grape tomatoes for their flavor and minimal seediness, but you can feel free to use any variety of tomato you prefer.

Basil – In addition to the basil pesto, I also added fresh chopped basil to taste. I would highly suggest adding the fresh basil after baking for the best flavor and bright, fresh color.

Balsamic glaze – Finally, I drizzled balsamic glaze over the top of the flatbread for additional flavor. Be sure to use glaze and not balsamic vinegar or vinaigrette, since glaze is thickened and meant to be used in this way. You can make homemade glaze or find it in the Italian food aisle at your local grocery store.

how to make caprese flatbread

Prep the lavash. Cut the lavash in half lengthwise to create two long, thin flatbreads. Place it on a baking sheet and bake at 400° for 3-4 minutes to toast the base.

Chop the veggies. Chop the tomatoes into fourths, roll and slice the basil into strips, and cut the red onion into thin slices. Set aside.

Assemble the flatbreads. Assemble the flatbreads by spreading pesto on the toasted flatbread. Top with shredded mozzarella, red onion, tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella pearls.

Bake & garnish. Bake for an additional 5-6 minutes. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh basil and balsamic glaze. Cut each half into 6-7 pieces and enjoy!

Recipe Variations

Use any type of flatbread, including lavash, naan, pita, or homemade
Substitute sun dried tomato pesto for basil pesto
Use shredded provolone or Italian blend instead of mozzarella
Use any type of tomatoes
Omit the onion according to taste
Garnish with Italian seasoning, grated Parmesan or crushed red pepper flakes

more caprese recipes you’ll love

If you love caprese flavors, be sure to check out some of our other favorites!