Caprese skewers are a tasty and fun way to enjoy fresh flavors! These little bites are made with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all on a stick.
They make for a perfect snack or appetizer, and trust me, they disappear quickly at parties! I love drizzling them with balsamic glaze for that extra zing—it’s so simple yet so good!🍅🧀🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: These are juicy and sweet—perfect for skewers! If they’re out of season, you might use grape tomatoes or even small heirloom tomatoes. The key is to choose tomatoes that have a good flavor!
Fresh Mozzarella Balls: Bocconcini and ciliegine work well here because they are bite-sized. If you don’t have them, you could use cubed regular mozzarella. Just make sure to drain excess liquid to avoid sogginess.
Fresh Basil: Basil adds a refreshing touch. If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use arugula or spinach instead, but it’ll change the flavor. Dried basil is a last resort, but use it sparingly.
Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze really enhances the flavor. If you can’t find it, try balsamic vinegar instead, but use it sparingly as it’s more potent. Some people like using a honey-balsamic mix for a twist!
How Do You Perfectly Assemble Caprese Skewers?
Assembling the skewers is easy, but doing it neatly will make them look great on your platter. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a skewer and add a cherry tomato. Thread it all the way down to allow space.
- Add a folded basil leaf next, followed by a mozzarella ball. Make sure it’s secure but not squished.
- Repeat the process until the skewer is filled, leaving a little space at the end.
- This way, each bite has a perfect mix of flavors—tomato, basil, and mozzarella!
Using varying colors of tomatoes can also make the skewers more visually appealing. Enjoy assembling your skewers—the better they look, the more appetizing they are!
Caprese Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze or reduced balsamic vinegar
- Wooden skewers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time. It’s a quick and easy snack or appetizer that you can whip up in no time, making it perfect for gatherings or just a casual evening at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse and Prepare Ingredients:
Begin by rinsing your cherry tomatoes and basil leaves under cold water. Once they’re clean, gently pat them dry with a clean towel. This helps ensure your skewers don’t get soggy. Next, drain the mozzarella balls and also pat them dry to remove any additional moisture.
2. Assemble Your Skewers:
Grab a wooden skewer and begin threading the ingredients. Start with one cherry tomato, followed by a fresh basil leaf (you can fold it in half if it’s large), then a mozzarella ball. Add another basil leaf, and finish with a second cherry tomato. You can repeat this until the skewer is full, but make sure to leave some space at the end to hold!
3. Arrange and Season:
Once you’ve finished assembling all your skewers, place them neatly on a serving platter. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the skewers for added flavor. Then sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to your taste.
4. Add the Finishing Touch:
The last step is to drizzle the balsamic glaze over the skewers. This gives them a sweet and tangy finish that perfectly complements the other flavors. If you prefer to serve chilled, pop them in the fridge for a short while before serving.
5. Enjoy!
Serve your Caprese skewers immediately and watch them disappear! They’re not just delicious; they’re also a beautiful addition to any table. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes work best for skewers, you can also use grape tomatoes or small heirloom varieties. Just make sure they’re sweet and juicy for the best flavor!
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep most of the ingredients ahead! Assemble the skewers a few hours before serving, but drizzle the olive oil and balsamic glaze just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The ingredients will still be tasty, but the basil may wilt slightly. Enjoy them cold or allow them to come to room temperature before eating!
What Can I Substitute for Mozzarella?
If you don’t have fresh mozzarella, you can use cubed regular mozzarella or even feta cheese for a tangy twist. Just remember to adjust the moisture level by draining well!
