Caprese Skewers are a simple, delicious, and visually stunning appetizer that combines the fresh, vibrant flavors of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze for a perfect balance of savory and sweet. These bite-sized treats are easy to assemble, making them ideal for parties, picnics, or any casual gathering. Whether you’re serving them as a starter or a light snack, Caprese Skewers are a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Caprese Skewers bring together the classic Italian Caprese salad in a fun, portable form. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil leaves creates a refreshing and flavorful bite in every skewer. The drizzle of balsamic glaze adds the perfect touch of sweetness and acidity to tie everything together. These skewers are easy to prepare, visually appealing, and perfect for serving at any occasion—from casual get-togethers to more elegant dinner parties. Plus, they’re gluten-free and vegetarian, making them suitable for many dietary preferences!
Ingredients
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1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
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8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
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Fresh basil leaves (about 20-25 leaves)
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Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
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Olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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10-12 small wooden skewers or toothpicks
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Prepare the ingredients: Wash the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. Drain the mozzarella balls if they are packed in liquid.
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Assemble the skewers: On each skewer or toothpick, thread a cherry tomato, a fresh basil leaf (folded in half if it’s large), and a mozzarella ball. Repeat the process for the remaining skewers.
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Drizzle and season: Once all the skewers are assembled, drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the top for sweetness and acidity. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
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Serve: Arrange the skewers on a serving platter and serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
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Enjoy: These Caprese Skewers are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be made ahead of time and served chilled.
Servings and timing
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Servings: 4-6 servings (depending on the size of your skewers)
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Total time: 10 minutes
Variations
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Grilled Caprese Skewers: Grill the assembled skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side for a slightly smoky flavor. Just be sure to watch them closely to prevent the cheese from melting too much.
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Vegan Version: Use dairy-free mozzarella or vegan cheese for a dairy-free option that still delivers a creamy texture.
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Different Balsamic Glaze: Experiment with flavored balsamic glazes, such as fig or raspberry, to give your skewers a unique flavor.
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Add Olives: Include a few green or black olives between the tomato, basil, and mozzarella for extra flavor and a Mediterranean touch.
Storage/Reheating
Caprese Skewers are best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. If you’re making them ahead of time, keep the skewers unseasoned (without the balsamic glaze) until just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.
FAQs
1. Can I use larger tomatoes for Caprese Skewers?
Yes, you can use larger tomatoes (like Roma or vine tomatoes), but be sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces. Cherry or grape tomatoes are preferred for ease of eating and because they hold their shape well.
2. Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the skewers ahead of time and refrigerate them. Just wait to drizzle the balsamic glaze and olive oil until just before serving to keep them fresh.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use other types of fresh cheese, like ricotta or burrata, though mozzarella is the traditional choice for Caprese skewers.
4. Is balsamic glaze essential?
Balsamic glaze adds a rich, tangy sweetness to the skewers, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or even just olive oil and a pinch of salt.
5. Can I serve these with a dipping sauce?
Yes! You can serve these skewers with a side of extra balsamic glaze or a dipping sauce made from olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic for an added flavor boost.
6. Can I make these skewers vegan?
Yes, simply replace the mozzarella with a vegan cheese alternative, and the rest of the recipe remains the same.
7. Can I grill the mozzarella sticks?
While grilling the mozzarella could add a smoky flavor, it may make it melt, and you’ll lose the classic mozzarella texture. Grilling the entire skewer for a few minutes is a great option, but be sure to monitor the skewers to prevent the cheese from melting too much.
8. Can I add nuts to the skewers?
Yes! You can add nuts like pine nuts or chopped almonds for a bit of crunch and extra flavor that complements the other ingredients.
9. Can I make these skewers gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so no need for substitutions—just ensure that the balsamic glaze or any other dressing you use is gluten-free.
10. Can I serve these skewers warm?
While Caprese Skewers are traditionally served cold or at room temperature, you can serve them slightly warm by gently warming the skewers on the grill for a few minutes.
Conclusion
Caprese Skewers are an easy, healthy, and vibrant appetizer that combines fresh, simple ingredients to create a delicious, flavorful dish. The combination of sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil is a classic, and the drizzle of balsamic glaze ties everything together beautifully. Whether you’re hosting a party, making a snack, or preparing a light meal, these skewers are a perfect choice that’s sure to impress. Try them out for your next gathering or as a delightful treat anytime!
Print
Caprese Skewers
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Caprese Skewers are a simple, delicious appetizer combining tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze. They are visually stunning and perfect for parties, picnics, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
Fresh basil leaves (about 20-25 leaves)
Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
Olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
Salt and pepper to taste
10–12 small wooden skewers or toothpicks
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Wash the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. Drain the mozzarella balls if they are packed in liquid.
- Assemble the skewers: On each skewer or toothpick, thread a cherry tomato, a fresh basil leaf (folded in half if it’s large), and a mozzarella ball. Repeat the process for the remaining skewers.
- Drizzle and season: Once all the skewers are assembled, drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the top for sweetness and acidity. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
- Serve: Arrange the skewers on a serving platter and serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy: These Caprese Skewers are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be made ahead of time and served chilled.
Notes
Grilled Caprese Skewers: Grill the assembled skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side for a smoky flavor.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free mozzarella or vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
Different Balsamic Glaze: Try flavored balsamic glazes, like fig or raspberry, for a unique twist.
Add Olives: Include green or black olives between the tomato, basil, and mozzarella for extra flavor.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Assemble without the balsamic glaze to prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Assembly
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
