Why You’ll Love Caprese SkewersRecipe
-
It’s incredibly simple and quick: you only need a handful of ingredients and about 15 minutes.
-
No cooking required, so it’s ideal for hot days, casual gatherings, or last-minute preparations.
-
The classic tomato-mozzarella-basil flavor shines — it tastes fresh, light, and summery.
-
It’s versatile: you can easily adjust portion size depending on how many people you’re serving.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
24 cherry tomatoes
12 mini mozzarella balls
24 basil leaves
Extra-virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
Balsamic reduction (for drizzling)
Sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Directions
-
On mini wooden skewers, thread the ingredients — typically two cherry tomatoes and one mozzarella ball per skewer, with a basil leaf tucked in. If basil leaves are large, fold them before skewering.
-
Once skewered, drizzle with olive oil and balsamic reduction.
-
Finish by sprinkling sea salt and freshly ground black pepper over the skewers. Serve immediately.
Servings and timing
Serves: approximately 4 people (makes about 12–24 skewers depending on size)
Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes (no cooking required)
Variations
-
Try using a variety of colored cherry tomatoes (yellow, purple, orange) for a more vibrant platter.
-
Substitute basil with fresh mint for a different herbal note.
-
Swap some or all of the cherry tomatoes with diced peaches or strawberries for a sweeter twist.
-
For a richer appetizer, use marinated mozzarella instead of plain balls for added flavor.
Storage/Reheating
These skewers are best served fresh on the same day they’re prepared, especially to keep the basil looking and tasting its best.
If you need to prep ahead, assemble the skewers up to 4 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Add the olive oil, balsamic reduction, salt, and pepper just before serving.
FAQs
What kind of mozzarella should I use?
Use soft, fresh mozzarella balls, such as ciliegine (cherry-size), which match well in size with cherry tomatoes. Larger mozzarella can be cut into small chunks.
Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Yes, grape tomatoes are a fine substitute, although cherry tomatoes are often sweeter and more visually balanced for skewers.
How far in advance can I assemble the skewers?
You can assemble them up to 4 hours ahead of time. Keep them refrigerated and wait to drizzle the oil and balsamic until just before serving.
Can I skip the balsamic reduction?
Yes, you can skip it or substitute it with plain balsamic vinegar or a lemon-olive oil drizzle depending on your taste preference.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are vegetarian-friendly.
Can I double or halve the recipe easily?
Absolutely. This recipe scales up or down effortlessly based on how many skewers you want to make.
What if my basil leaves are too large for skewers?
Simply fold or tear the basil leaves to make them fit neatly on the skewer without overpowering the other ingredients.
Can I make these skewers ahead of a party?
Yes, just be sure to add the oil, balsamic, and seasonings right before serving for the freshest taste and presentation.
How should I serve these — cold or room temperature?
They are best served at room temperature. If they’ve been refrigerated, let them sit out for about 15–20 minutes before serving.
Can I add other ingredients (like olives or roasted peppers)?
Yes, feel free to experiment by adding extras like olives, roasted red peppers, or even small prosciutto slices for added flavor.
Conclusion
Caprese skewers are a quick, easy, and visually stunning appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With no cooking required and just a few fresh ingredients, they deliver classic Italian flavors in a fun, party-ready form. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or need a last-minute snack, this recipe offers delicious versatility and effortless elegance.
Caprese Skewers
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 skewers
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Caprese skewers are a simple, elegant appetizer featuring fresh cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
Ingredients
- 24 cherry tomatoes
- 24 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 24 fresh basil leaves
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 24 small skewers or toothpicks
Instructions
- Thread one cherry tomato, one mozzarella ball, and one basil leaf onto each skewer or toothpick.
- Arrange the skewers on a serving platter.
- Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
- Use the freshest ingredients possible for best flavor.
- Make ahead by assembling the skewers a few hours in advance and storing them in the fridge.
- Customize with marinated mozzarella or a touch of pesto for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
