I love serving Caprese skewers at parties because they always disappear within minutes. These bite-sized appetizers combine the classic Italian flavors of fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes in a portable, mess-free package. What I appreciate most about them is how they bring an elegant touch to any gathering while being ridiculously simple to make – perfect for both casual get-togethers and fancy events.
Ingredients
- 24 cherry tomatoes
- 12 fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine)
- 24 fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 12 wooden skewers (6-inch length)
Quick Tip: Can’t find ciliegine mozzarella? Just cut a larger ball of fresh mozzarella into bite-sized chunks. And if fresh basil isn’t available, though it’s really best with fresh, you can skip it rather than use dried basil.
Instructions
- Rinse your cherry tomatoes and basil leaves. Pat them dry with paper towels – this helps the olive oil stick better.
- If your mozzarella balls are packed in water, drain and pat them dry too.
- Thread your ingredients onto each skewer in this order: tomato, basil leaf (folded in half), mozzarella ball, basil leaf, tomato.
- Arrange your skewers on a serving platter.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
- Finish with a sprinkle of sea salt and fresh pepper.
Time and Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 12 skewers
Why This Recipe Works
I’ve made these Caprese skewers countless times, and they never fail to impress. The secret lies in their simplicity – when you use quality ingredients, you don’t need to complicate things. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, they’re customizable – you can adjust the size of the ingredients or add extras like marinated artichokes or olives to make them your own.
What I really love about these skewers is that you can make them ahead of time. Just wait to add the olive oil, balsamic glaze, and seasonings until right before serving. They’re perfect for summer gatherings when you don’t want to turn on the oven, but honestly, I make them year-round because they’re that good!
Caprese Skewers
Ingredients
- 24 cherry tomatoes
- 12 fresh mozzarella balls ciliegine
- 24 fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 12 wooden skewers 6-inch length
Instructions
- Rinse your cherry tomatoes and basil leaves. Pat them dry with paper towels – this helps the olive oil stick better.
- If your mozzarella balls are packed in water, drain and pat them dry too.
- Thread your ingredients onto each skewer in this order: tomato, basil leaf (folded in half), mozzarella ball, basil leaf, tomato.
- Arrange your skewers on a serving platter.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
- Finish with a sprinkle of sea salt and fresh pepper.
