Why You’ll Love Caprese Skewers Recipe
-
It’s simple and quick — just a few fresh ingredients and minimal prep
-
The flavors are bright and summer‑fresh: the sweet tomatoes, aromatic basil, and creamy mozzarella balance perfectly
-
They’re perfect for gatherings: easy to serve, share, and eat — no knives needed
-
Because of its simplicity, the quality of ingredients really shines — so you get the freshest taste with minimal cooking
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
24 cherry tomatoes
12 mini mozzarella balls (ciliegine size)
24 basil leaves
Extra‑virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Balsamic reduction, for drizzling
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions
-
Thread the cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and mini mozzarella balls onto mini wooden skewers. A good pattern is two cherry tomatoes and one mozzarella ball per skewer, with a basil leaf tucked between. If your basil leaves are large, fold them before skewering so they fit nicely.
-
Once all skewers are assembled, drizzle them with good extra‑virgin olive oil and a balsamic reduction (or glaze).
-
Sprinkle sea salt and freshly ground black pepper over the skewers to taste.
-
Serve immediately and enjoy.
Servings and timing
Serves: 4 people
Prep time: about 15 minutes
Total time: about 15 minutes
Variations
-
Use a mix of cherry tomato colors (red, yellow, orange) — it adds a beautiful, vibrant look
-
Instead of balsamic reduction, you could drizzle plain balsamic vinegar (if you like a sharper tang), though glaze gives a sweeter finish
-
Substitute basil with fresh mint if you’d like a lighter, more refreshing herbal note
-
Replace some of the tomatoes with small pieces of fruit (like strawberries or peaches) for a sweeter, summery twist
Storage/Reheating
Because the skewers are freshest when assembled and dressed right before serving, they are best eaten the same day. If you need to prepare ahead: you can assemble the skewers up to 4 hours in advance and store them — without dressing — in the refrigerator. Add the olive oil, balsamic, salt, and pepper just before serving for best flavor and freshness.
FAQs
What kind of mozzarella should I use?
Use small mozzarella balls (ciliegine size), roughly the same size as cherry tomatoes. Their bite‑size shape makes them perfect for skewers.
Can I use regular mozzarella instead of mini balls?
Yes — if you only have a larger mozzarella ball, you can cut it into pieces roughly the size of the cherry tomatoes. It won’t be exactly the same, but it will still work.
Do I have to use balsamic reduction?
No — you can use regular balsamic vinegar if you prefer a sharper, tangier finish. Balsamic reduction adds a sweeter, more syrupy glaze.
Can I make the skewers ahead of time?
You can assemble them up to about 4 hours ahead and store them (undressed) in the fridge. Wait to drizzle them with olive oil, balsamic, salt, and pepper until just before serving.
Can I substitute the basil with another herb?
Yes — mint is a great alternative if you want a lighter, more refreshing flavor instead of the classic basil aroma.
Are these skewers suitable for vegetarians?
Yes — the recipe uses only tomatoes, basil, mozzarella, olive oil, balsamic, salt, and pepper, all vegetarian‑friendly.
Can I make them vegan?
You could — by swapping the mozzarella balls for a vegan cheese alternative or even marinated tofu. The tomato and basil combination still shines.
What if basil leaves are too big for the skewers?
Simply fold or tear the basil leaves into smaller pieces before threading them onto the skewers so they fit neatly.
Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Yes — grape tomatoes can work fine. They’re similar in size and sweetness.
What occasions are these skewers best for?
They’re perfect as a light appetizer, for parties, picnics, summer gatherings, or as a healthy snack.
Conclusion
These Caprese skewers are a brilliant example of how simplicity can lead to extraordinary flavor. With just a few fresh ingredients — cherry tomatoes, basil, mozzarella, olive oil, and balsamic — you can create a vibrant, delicious appetizer that’s ready in minutes and loved by nearly everyone. Whether you’re hosting friends, looking for a quick healthy snack, or putting together a summer spread, these skewers bring fresh flavor and effortless charm to the table.
Caprese Skewers
These Caprese Skewers are a fresh, simple, and colorful appetizer made with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil. Perfect for parties and gatherings, they’re easy to assemble and drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 skewers
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 24 cherry tomatoes
- 24 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 24 fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Sea salt, for sprinkling
- Freshly ground black pepper, for sprinkling
- 24 small skewers or toothpicks
Instructions
- Assemble the skewers by threading one cherry tomato, one basil leaf, and one mozzarella ball onto each skewer or toothpick.
- Arrange the skewers on a serving platter.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
- Sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to a few hours before serving.
Notes
- You can use flavored mozzarella balls (like marinated) for added taste.
- Use a squeeze bottle for more controlled balsamic glaze drizzling.
- Skewers can be assembled a few hours in advance and stored in the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 3.5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
