There’s something magical about summer gatherings when the air smells of fresh basil and ripe tomatoes . I still remember my grandmother’s garden in Italy, she would pick cherry tomatoes straight from the vine, drizzle them with golden olive oil, and layer them with creamy mozzarella and basil. These Caprese Skewers bring back that exact taste of sunshine and family. They’re vibrant, effortless, and absolutely delicious for any occasion, from picnics to elegant dinners.
Why You’ll Love These Caprese Skewers
These bite-sized Italian appetizers are fresh, healthy, and visually stunning. Each skewer bursts with Mediterranean flavor, sweet tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy mozzarella tied together with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze. Ready in minutes, they’re the perfect no cook dish that everyone loves.
Ingredients
- 24 cherry tomatoes
- 24 mini fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine)
- 24 fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1½ tablespoons balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
- If making your own balsamic glaze, simmer ½ cup balsamic vinegar over medium heat until reduced to a syrupy consistency (about 10–15 minutes). Let cool completely.
- Gently pat the mozzarella balls dry to remove excess moisture.
- Thread onto small skewers or toothpicks: one cherry tomato, one folded basil leaf, one mozzarella ball, another basil leaf, and another tomato.
- Arrange the skewers neatly on a serving platter.
- Drizzle olive oil evenly over the skewers.
- Add a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Sprinkle lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time (for glaze): 12 minutes | Total Time: 22 minutes
Kcal: ~60 kcal per skewer | Servings: 24 skewers
Tips for Perfect Caprese Skewers
- Use high-quality ingredients: The simplicity of this dish means every ingredient matters. Choose ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes and the freshest mozzarella you can find.
- Dry mozzarella: Always pat the mozzarella dry so the skewers don’t get soggy.
- Homemade glaze: Reducing balsamic vinegar yourself creates a deep, rich sweetness that beats any bottled version.
- Serve fresh: Assemble them close to serving time to keep the basil vibrant and the cheese creamy.
- Presentation tip: Arrange them in alternating colors for a festive look, perfect for holidays or dinner parties.
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: If you have leftovers, cover and refrigerate for up to 1 day. Keep the skewers and glaze separate to prevent sogginess.
- Make ahead: You can assemble the skewers up to 4 hours in advance and store them covered in the fridge. Add the olive oil and balsamic glaze right before serving.
- Reheating: These are best served cold or at room temperature, no reheating needed!
Caprese Skewers are proof that simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavor. Whether it’s a summer picnic, a cozy indoor party, or a romantic dinner, these little bites will always steal the show. Serve them with sparkling water or a refreshing lemonade, and you’ve got a taste of Italy on a stick!
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Caprese Skewers
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Description
Inspired by the heart of Italy, these Caprese Skewers bring sunshine to your table, simple ingredients layered with love, freshness, and a drizzle of balsamic magic.
Ingredients
– 24 cherry tomatoes
– 24 mini fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine)
– 24 fresh basil leaves
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 1½ tablespoons balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. If making your own balsamic glaze, simmer ½ cup balsamic vinegar over medium heat until reduced to a syrupy consistency (about 10-15 minutes). Let cool.
2. Gently pat the mozzarella balls dry to remove excess moisture.
3. Thread onto small skewers (or toothpicks) alternately: one cherry tomato, one basil leaf (folded if large), one mozzarella ball, another basil leaf, ending with a tomato.
4. Place all skewers on a serving platter.
5. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the skewers.
6. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over them just before serving.
7. Sprinkle lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 skewers
- Calories: 60 kcal per skewer
