Caprese Skewers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Caprese Skewers are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for quick entertaining. The vibrant colors of the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil leaves make them look as good as they taste. Plus, they’re versatile—serve them as appetizers, side dishes, or even a light lunch. The balsamic glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and tang, complementing the fresh ingredients beautifully. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will wow your guests with its simplicity and taste.

Ingredients

• 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes

• 1 package (8 oz) fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine), drained

• Fresh basil leaves

• Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Skewers or toothpicks

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Skewers: Take your skewers or toothpicks and start assembling the Caprese skewers. Thread a cherry tomato, followed by a fresh basil leaf, and then a mozzarella ball onto each skewer. Repeat this process until all the skewers are assembled.

2. Season: Arrange the skewers on a serving platter and lightly season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the skewers just before serving. If you prefer, you can also serve the glaze on the side for dipping.

4. Serve: These skewers are best served immediately, though they can be refrigerated for a short time before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add Prosciutto: For a savory twist, add a slice of prosciutto between the mozzarella and tomato for extra flavor.

• Vegan Caprese Skewers: Use vegan mozzarella for a dairy-free version.

• Herb Infusion: Add other herbs like oregano or thyme to the skewers for extra flavor and variety.

• Grilled Version: Grill the assembled skewers for a few minutes on a preheated grill for a smoky, charred taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: If you have leftover Caprese skewers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. It’s best to store the balsamic glaze separately to prevent the skewers from becoming soggy.

• Reheating: These skewers are meant to be served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary. Simply take them out of the fridge before serving.

FAQs

Can I use larger tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

While cherry tomatoes are ideal for skewers, you can use larger tomatoes, but you may need to cut them into smaller pieces to make them more manageable on the skewers.

How do I make homemade balsamic glaze?

To make balsamic glaze, simply simmer 1 cup of balsamic vinegar in a saucepan over medium heat until it reduces by half and becomes syrupy. Add a teaspoon of honey or sugar for sweetness, if desired.

Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the skewers a few hours ahead of time. Just be sure to store them in the refrigerator and drizzle the balsamic glaze on right before serving to keep the flavors fresh.

Can I add other ingredients to these skewers?

Absolutely! You can add a variety of ingredients, such as olives, roasted red peppers, or even small cubes of cucumber, to customize the skewers to your liking.

Can I make a larger batch?

Yes, this recipe can easily be scaled up. Just make sure you have enough skewers or toothpicks to assemble the ingredients.

Are Caprese skewers gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for anyone with dietary restrictions.

How long will these skewers last in the fridge?

Caprese skewers are best eaten fresh, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. They may lose some of their crispness and flavor over time, so it’s best to enjoy them within a day.

Can I use pre-made mozzarella balls?

Yes, pre-made mozzarella balls (ciliegine) are perfect for this recipe. They’re the ideal size for skewering and save you time.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to try bocconcini, burrata, or even a mild goat cheese for a unique twist.

How do I make these skewers more filling?

You can add protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp to make these skewers more substantial as a main course or hearty appetizer.

Conclusion

Caprese Skewers are a simple, yet elegant, appetizer that packs in all the flavors of the classic Caprese salad in a bite-sized form. Fresh, colorful, and bursting with flavor, these skewers are a perfect addition to any party or gathering. Whether served as a snack or a party platter, they are sure to be a hit with everyone! Enjoy the perfect combination of sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and tangy balsamic glaze in every bite.