Easy Fresh Caprese Skewers Recipe with Balsamic Glaze for Perfect Appetizers
Quick and simple caprese skewers combining cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for last-minute appetizers that impress without stress.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 20 skewers (about 4 servings) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 20 cherry tomatoes, ripe and firm
- 20 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
- 20 fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Pinch of flaky sea salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 20 wooden skewers or toothpicks (soaked in water for 10 minutes if wooden)
Instructions
- Drain the mozzarella balls well to avoid watery skewers. Rinse and dry the basil leaves gently to keep them fresh and bright. Wash cherry tomatoes and pat dry.
- Place the mozzarella and tomatoes in a bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with flaky sea salt and freshly cracked pepper. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- On each skewer, thread one cherry tomato, followed by a folded basil leaf (fold it in half if large), then a mozzarella ball, and finish with another cherry tomato.
- Lay the skewers side by side on a serving platter, alternating colors and shapes for a visually appealing presentation.
- Lightly drizzle the balsamic glaze over the skewers using a spoon or squeeze bottle. Avoid overdoing it to maintain balance of flavors.
- Sprinkle a bit more flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper on top. Serve immediately or chill for up to an hour before serving.
Notes
Use small mozzarella balls (bocconcini) for best texture. Handle basil leaves gently and keep them dry to prevent wilting. Assemble skewers close to serving time and drizzle balsamic glaze just before serving to keep freshness. Wooden skewers should be soaked in water to prevent burning if grilling. For dairy-free version, substitute mozzarella with marinated tofu or vegan mozzarella. Homemade balsamic glaze can be made by simmering balsamic vinegar with sugar or honey until thickened.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 4 skewers per
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 11
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 1.5
- Protein: 9
Keywords: Caprese skewers, easy appetizers, balsamic glaze, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, quick snacks, party food