Caprese Salad Skewers are a fun, portable twist on the classic Italian Caprese salad. By threading cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves onto skewers, you get all the vibrant flavors of Caprese in a convenient bite-sized format. Drizzled with a balsamic glaze and sprinkled with a pinch of salt and pepper, these skewers are perfect for entertaining, potlucks, or even a light snack. Not only are they quick and easy to prepare, but they also look stunning on a platter, making them a crowd-pleaser every time. With their fresh ingredients and simple preparation, Caprese Salad Skewers bring elegance and flavor to any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bite-sized and easy to eat, making them perfect for parties, picnics, or appetizers.
- A fresh, healthy, and flavorful dish that highlights simple ingredients.
- Stunning presentation that adds elegance to any gathering.
- Quick and easy to assemble, requiring no cooking.
- Fully customizable with additional ingredients to suit your taste.
- Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly.
- A refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm-weather occasions.
Preparation Time and Servings:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: None
- Total time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 skewers
- Serving Size: 2 skewers per person
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 120
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
Ingredients
- 24 cherry or grape tomatoes
- 24 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 12 fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 12 wooden or bamboo skewers
Optional Additions:
- Sliced prosciutto or salami
- Kalamata olives
- Cubed avocado
- Roasted red pepper strips
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Wash the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Drain the mozzarella balls and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
- Assemble the skewers: Thread a cherry tomato onto the skewer, followed by a basil leaf (folded if necessary), then a mozzarella ball. Repeat the pattern one more time, ending with another tomato.
- Arrange the skewers: Lay the assembled skewers on a serving platter in a single layer for an eye-catching presentation.
- Drizzle and season: Drizzle the skewers with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze. Sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before serving.
Ingredient Background
- Cherry tomatoes: These bite-sized tomatoes are sweet, juicy, and bursting with flavor, making them the perfect base for Caprese skewers.
- Mozzarella balls: Bocconcini or ciliegine mozzarella offers creamy, mild cheese that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes and basil.
- Fresh basil: The aromatic leaves add a burst of herbal freshness and tie together the classic Caprese flavor profile.
- Balsamic glaze: This thick, tangy reduction of balsamic vinegar enhances the flavor of the skewers with a sweet and slightly acidic note.
- Extra virgin olive oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness and enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Technique Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor—ripe cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and good-quality mozzarella are key.
- Soak wooden or bamboo skewers in water for 10 minutes before assembling to prevent splintering.
- Keep the basil leaves whole for a more authentic look, but fold them if they’re too large to fit neatly on the skewer.
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze just before serving to avoid making the skewers too wet during storage.
- If you prefer, you can substitute store-bought balsamic glaze with homemade balsamic reduction. Simply simmer balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey until thickened.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
- Single-serving cups: Place one or two skewers in a small clear plastic or glass cup for an elegant, individual presentation.
- Caprese platter: Arrange the skewers on a large platter with additional ingredients like olives, artichokes, or roasted red peppers for a Mediterranean-inspired spread.
- Deconstructed salad: Skip the skewers and arrange the ingredients on a platter for a more traditional Caprese salad presentation.
Additional Tips for Success
- Pat the mozzarella balls and tomatoes dry to prevent the skewers from becoming too watery.
- If making ahead, store the skewers without the drizzle and add the olive oil and balsamic glaze just before serving.
- Use skewers with a pointed end for easier assembly, especially if working with delicate ingredients like basil leaves.
- For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle the skewers with a pinch of dried oregano or red pepper flakes.
Recipe Variations
- Meaty option: Add slices of prosciutto, salami, or cooked chicken for a more filling appetizer.
- Vegan version: Replace mozzarella with marinated tofu or plant-based mozzarella alternatives.
- Spicy twist: Sprinkle the skewers with crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle with spicy olive oil.
- Fruity addition: Add a piece of fresh fruit like watermelon or cantaloupe for a sweet contrast.
- Mediterranean flair: Include olives, marinated artichokes, or roasted red peppers between the tomatoes and mozzarella.
Freezing and Storage
- To make ahead: Assemble the skewers up to 4 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add olive oil and balsamic glaze just before serving.
- To store leftovers: Place leftover skewers in a sealed container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Note that the basil may wilt slightly over time.
- Freezing not recommended: Due to the fresh ingredients, this dish does not freeze well.
Healthier Twist Ideas
- Use light or reduced-fat mozzarella to lower the calorie and fat content.
- Substitute balsamic glaze with freshly squeezed lemon juice for a lighter, tangy flavor.
- Add more greens by including arugula leaves alongside the basil.
- Incorporate extra veggies like cucumber slices or zucchini ribbons for added fiber and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions for Events
- Cocktail parties: Serve the skewers as part of a larger appetizer spread alongside items like bruschetta, stuffed mushrooms, or antipasto platters.
- Picnics: Pack the skewers in a portable container for an easy, mess-free addition to your picnic basket.
- Holiday gatherings: Arrange the skewers in the shape of a wreath on a round platter for a festive touch.
- Lunchbox addition: Include a couple of skewers in a lunchbox for a refreshing and nutritious snack.
Special Equipment
- Wooden or bamboo skewers (about 6-8 inches long)
- A sharp knife for halving the cherry tomatoes, if desired.
- A platter or serving tray for presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! While fresh mozzarella is traditional, you can use cubes of feta, provolone, or even a plant-based cheese for dietary preferences.
2. What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?
You can make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar with a bit of honey or sugar until it thickens. Alternatively, use a splash of regular balsamic vinegar.
3. How do I keep the basil fresh?
To keep basil fresh, assemble the skewers just before serving or store them in the fridge covered with a damp paper towel.
4. Can I use different tomatoes?
Yes! Grape tomatoes or even sliced heirloom tomatoes cut into small pieces work well as substitutes.
5. Are there other skewer options?
If you prefer not to use wooden skewers, toothpicks or reusable metal skewers work just as well for this recipe.
6. Can I make this dish keto-friendly?
This dish is naturally low in carbs, making it keto-friendly. Be sure to check the carb content of your balsamic glaze or use a sugar-free version.
7. How long can these sit out at room temperature?
Caprese Salad Skewers can sit out for about 2 hours. If serving outdoors on a hot day, keep them chilled on an ice-packed tray.
8. Can I make mini skewers?
Yes! Use smaller toothpicks to create bite-sized skewers with just one tomato, one basil leaf, and one mozzarella ball.
Conclusion
Caprese Salad Skewers are a delicious, elegant, and versatile appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. With their fresh flavors and stunning presentation, they’re perfect for everything from casual get-togethers to formal events. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or experiment with creative variations, these skewers are sure to impress. Quick to assemble and packed with nutrients, they’re a fantastic way to elevate any meal or gathering. Give them a try, and watch them disappear from the platter in no time!
Print
Caprese Salad Skewers
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 skewers 1x
Ingredients
- 24 cherry or grape tomatoes
- 24 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 12 fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 12 wooden or bamboo skewers
Optional Additions:
- Sliced prosciutto or salami
- Kalamata olives
- Cubed avocado
- Roasted red pepper strips
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Wash the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Drain the mozzarella balls and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
- Assemble the skewers: Thread a cherry tomato onto the skewer, followed by a basil leaf (folded if necessary), then a mozzarella ball. Repeat the pattern one more time, ending with another tomato.
- Arrange the skewers: Lay the assembled skewers on a serving platter in a single layer for an eye-catching presentation.
- Drizzle and season: Drizzle the skewers with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze. Sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: none
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers per person
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g