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.
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.
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.
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.