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Irresistible Caprese Skewers for a Fresh & Flavorful Appetizer
These Caprese Skewers are a fresh and vibrant Italian-inspired appetizer, perfect for parties, picnics, or a quick snack. With juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil leaves drizzled in olive oil and balsamic glaze, they deliver classic Caprese flavors in a fun, bite-sized form. Easy to assemble and visually stunning, these skewers are sure to impress guests while keeping things simple and healthy.
Ingredients
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients:
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Rinse the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves under cool water. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
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If the mozzarella balls are stored in liquid, drain and gently pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
Assemble the Skewers:
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Take a skewer or toothpick and slide on one cherry tomato.
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Fold a fresh basil leaf in half (if large) and add it next.
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Follow with a mozzarella ball.
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Repeat the pattern if your skewer is long enough, or keep it simple with one set of tomato, basil, and mozzarella per skewer.
Season the Skewers:
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Arrange the assembled skewers on a serving platter.
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Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over the skewers.
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Sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
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For added flavor and a touch of sweetness, drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze.
Serve:
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Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
If refrigerating, let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
Serving Size 1 Skewer
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 45kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 3.5g6%
- Saturated Fat 2g10%
- Cholesterol 10mg4%
- Sodium 60mg3%
- Total Carbohydrate 1.5g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.2g1%
- Sugars 1g
- Protein 2.5g5%
- Vitamin A 250 IU
- Vitamin C 2 mg
- Calcium 60 mg
- Iron 0.2 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Tips & Variations:
- Balsamic Glaze Substitute: If you don't have balsamic glaze, you can reduce regular balsamic vinegar by simmering it over low heat until it thickens.
- Add Protein: Add a slice of prosciutto or salami between the basil and mozzarella for a heartier skewer.
- Herb Twist: Sprinkle some dried Italian herbs or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Presentation Idea: Arrange the skewers in a circular pattern on a platter for a festive look!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! You can assemble the skewers up to 4 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze just before serving to keep them fresh.
Use fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine). They are the perfect size for skewers and have a soft, creamy texture that complements the tomatoes and basil.
Yes, you can use grape tomatoes or even heirloom cherry tomatoes for more color variety. Just make sure they’re small enough to fit comfortably on the skewers.
If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar over low heat until thickened. Alternatively, a splash of balsamic vinegar can be used for a tangy flavor.
They are best served cold or at room temperature. This keeps the mozzarella fresh and the basil vibrant.
To keep basil fresh, assemble the skewers close to serving time or store them covered in the fridge with a damp paper towel over them. Drizzling olive oil also helps preserve the basil.
Yes, Caprese skewers are naturally gluten-free and low-carb.
Absolutely! Try adding prosciutto, salami, or olives for added flavor, or sprinkle with Italian herbs for an extra kick.
