There is nothing quite like a bite-sized appetizer that packs a massive punch of flavor without keeping you stuck in the kitchen all day. If you are looking for the ultimate crowd-pleaser that happens to be naturally gluten-free, these Paleo Basil Bacon Tomato Bites are a total game-changer. The combination of crispy, salty bacon, sweet cherry tomatoes, and aromatic fresh basil is honestly addictive—I find myself making a double batch every time because they vanish from the platter in seconds!
Ingredients
- 10 strips (approx. 10 oz / 283g) thick-cut bacon, cut into 1.5-inch (3.8 cm) pieces.
- 1 pint (10 oz / 283g) cherry, grape, or Sungold tomatoes.
- 12 large fresh basil leaves (approx. 0.5 oz / 15g), torn into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces.
- 40 to 50 wooden toothpicks.
- Optional: 0.5 cup (115g) Quick Basil Pesto (for dipping).
Instructions
- Place the bacon pieces in a large skillet or frying pan and cook over medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the fat renders and the bacon is crispy but not burnt.
- Transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Slice the tomatoes in half crosswise while the bacon cools.
- To assemble, take the bottom half of a tomato, place one piece of crispy bacon on top, followed by a piece of fresh basil, and top with the other tomato half to create a small “sandwich.”
- Secure the stack by piercing a toothpick through the center, from the top tomato down through to the bottom tomato.
- Repeat this process with the remaining ingredients until all bites are assembled.
- Arrange on a platter and serve immediately, optionally with a side of pesto for dipping.
Chef’s Note: For the neatest presentation, try to match the size of your bacon pieces to the diameter of your tomatoes. If the tomatoes are very small, you may need to trim the bacon slightly after cooking.
Nutritional Information
Estimates based on a serving size of 4 bites.
- Calories: 95 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 1g
Pro Tips for Perfection
- The “Cold Pan” Technique: For the flattest bacon pieces that stack easily, place your bacon in a cold pan before turning on the heat. This helps the fat render slowly and prevents the bacon from curling up violently, ensuring your “sandwich” sits straight.
- Dry the Tomatoes: After washing your cherry tomatoes, make sure they are thoroughly dried with a paper towel. Excess water can make the bacon soggy and cause the basil to wilt faster.
- Toothpick Quality: Use “frilled” or decorative toothpicks if serving for a party. They are slightly longer and easier for guests to grab than standard plain toothpicks, and they add a nice visual flair.
- Assemble Fresh: While you can cook the bacon ahead of time, try to assemble these bites no more than 30 minutes before guests arrive. This ensures the bacon stays crisp and the tomato juices don’t break down the texture.
- Season the Tomatoes: Since bacon is salty, you don’t need much salt, but a tiny crack of fresh black pepper on the cut side of the tomato adds a gourmet touch before assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these Paleo Basil Bacon Tomato Bites in advance? Yes, but with a caveat. You can cook the bacon up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. However, you should assemble the actual bites just before serving to keep the bacon crispy. If you must assemble them early, do so no more than an hour ahead.
Is it better to bake or fry the bacon for this recipe? While the recipe calls for pan-frying, baking is an excellent method for larger batches. Bake the bacon pieces at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 15–20 minutes. This method often results in flatter pieces, which makes stacking the appetizer easier.
Are these appetizers suitable for Keto or Whole30 diets? Absolutely. These bites are naturally low-carb, gluten-free, dairy-free, and fit perfectly into Keto, Paleo, and Whole30 meal plans. Just ensure your bacon is sugar-free and nitrate-free to stay strictly compliant with Whole30 rules.
What is the best type of tomato to use? Sungold tomatoes are fantastic if you want a sweeter flavor profile to contrast the salty bacon. However, grape tomatoes tend to be firmer and hold their shape better than round cherry tomatoes, making them the easiest option for assembling sturdy bites.
These Paleo Basil Bacon Tomato Bites prove that healthy food doesn’t have to be boring. They are the perfect combination of salty, sweet, and fresh, making them a hit at everything from summer BBQs to holiday dinner parties. Give this recipe a try for your next gathering—I guarantee the platter will be empty before you know it! If you make them, snap a photo and tag me; I’d love to see your creation.
