Caprese Skewers

πŸ•’ Prep: 10 min
πŸ”₯ Cook:
🍽 Serves: 8

Caprese Skewers are the perfect bite-sized, refreshing appetizer that captures the essence of summer. With just a few fresh ingredients, they're easy to assemble and guaranteed to impress at any gathering.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • No cooking required, perfect for hot days.
  • Easy to customize for any crowd size.
  • Fresh, vibrant flavors that stand out.
  • Visually appealing β€” they brighten up any table.

Ingredients

12 cherry tomatoes
12 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
12 fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
12 wooden or bamboo skewers

Step-by-step Instructions

Start by rinsing the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry gently with a clean kitchen towel β€” you don't want any excess moisture. Grab your skewers and start threading: slide on a cherry tomato first, then fold a basil leaf in half and follow it with a mozzarella ball. Repeat this pattern until the skewer is filled, leaving a bit of room at both ends for easy handling.

Once all your skewers are assembled, place them on a serving platter. Drizzle them lightly with extra-virgin olive oil, making sure each skewer gets a bit of that luscious liquid. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper over the top to taste β€” remember, a little goes a long way. Just before you're ready to serve, give each skewer a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze, ensuring a little sweetness in every bite.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use room temperature mozzarella for the best texture β€” it should be soft and creamy.
  • If you're prepping ahead, assemble the skewers and refrigerate them, but wait to add the olive oil and balsamic glaze until just before serving to keep them fresh.
  • If you’re out of balsamic glaze, you can reduce regular balsamic vinegar with a bit of sugar over low heat until syrupy.

Serving Suggestions

These skewers pair wonderfully with a light, crisp white wine like a Pinot Grigio or a chilled rosΓ©. For an elegant touch, serve them alongside a charcuterie board filled with prosciutto, olives, and nuts for a complete appetizer spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Try marinated feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
What if I can't find fresh basil?
Swap it out for fresh mint or oregano leaves for a unique twist.
How long can these be stored?
Assembled skewers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but they're best enjoyed fresh.

Ingredients Explained

Cherry tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness and a pop of color. They're the juicy foundation of each skewer. Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) add a creamy, mild contrast that balances the tomatoes' acidity. The fresh basil leaves infuse a fragrant, aromatic note β€” a classic pairing with tomatoes and mozzarella. Extra-virgin olive oil adds richness and depth; opt for a high-quality one for the best flavor. A sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances the natural flavors without overpowering. Balsamic glaze provides a sweet-tangy finish, tying everything together beautifully. Finally, wooden or bamboo skewers make them easy to serve and eat.

Simplified Instructions

1. Rinse and dry the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves thoroughly.
2. Thread one cherry tomato, one basil leaf, and one mozzarella ball onto each skewer. Repeat to fill the skewer.
3. Drizzle the skewers with extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the skewers.

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