Caprese Skewers Recipe
Introduction
Caprese skewers are a fresh and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. Combining juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, these bite-sized treats are brightened with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces small mozzarella balls (ciliegine)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (plus more to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 24 round cherry tomatoes
- 24 fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
- 12 six-inch bamboo skewers
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, combine the mozzarella balls with olive oil, dried Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Let the mozzarella marinate for 15 minutes, or up to 3 days in the refrigerator. If refrigerated, allow olive oil to come to room temperature before assembling.
- Step 2: Assemble each skewer by threading one cherry tomato, one basil leaf, two marinated mozzarella balls, another basil leaf, and finishing with one more cherry tomato. Repeat until all 12 skewers are made.
- Step 3: Arrange the skewers on a serving platter and drizzle generously with balsamic glaze. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh, vibrant cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and appearance.
- Substitute dried Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for a fresher taste.
- Try adding a small piece of prosciutto for a savory twist.
- If you prefer, substitute the balsamic glaze with a reduction of balsamic vinegar made by simmering it until thickened.
Storage
Store assembled skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. For best texture and flavor, assemble just before serving. Leftover marinated mozzarella can be stored up to 3 days refrigerated.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular mozzarella instead of ciliegine?
Regular mozzarella can be used, but small mozzarella balls (ciliegine) are preferred for easy skewering and presentation.
What is balsamic glaze, and how is it different from balsamic vinegar?
Balsamic glaze is a thick, sweet reduction of balsamic vinegar that adds flavor and a glossy finish; it’s not the same as plain balsamic vinegar, which is thinner and more acidic.
PrintCaprese Skewers Recipe
These Caprese Skewers are a fresh, vibrant appetizer combining juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil leaves, and creamy mozzarella balls marinated in Italian seasoning and olive oil, finished with a drizzle of sweet balsamic glaze. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a light snack, they offer classic Italian flavors in a bite-sized, elegant presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 skewers 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Marinade and Cheese
- 8 ounces small mozzarella balls (ciliegine mozzarella)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Skewers
- 24 round cherry tomatoes (not oval-shaped grape tomatoes)
- 24 fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling (not balsamic vinegar)
- Twelve 6-inch bamboo skewers
Instructions
- Prepare the Skewers: Gather twelve 6-inch bamboo skewers and set them aside for assembling the Caprese bites.
- Marinate the Mozzarella: In a mixing bowl, combine the small mozzarella balls with ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil, 1 ½ teaspoons of dried Italian seasoning, and salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Stir gently to coat all the cheese balls evenly. Allow the mozzarella to marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature to absorb the flavors. For best results, you can marinate for up to 3 days in the refrigerator; if refrigerated, bring olive oil to room temperature before serving as it can solidify.
- Assemble the Skewers: Take each skewer and thread 1 cherry tomato first, followed by a fresh basil leaf, 2 marinated mozzarella balls, another basil leaf, and finish with 1 more cherry tomato on the end. Repeat this assembly for all twelve skewers.
- Serve: Arrange the completed Caprese skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle balsamic glaze generously over the skewers to enhance the flavor with a sweet tangy finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh textures and vibrant flavors.
Notes
- Use small round cherry tomatoes rather than oval-shaped grape tomatoes for best texture and appearance.
- Olive oil may solidify if refrigerated; allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
- Marinating mozzarella balls infuses them with flavour but keep marinating time short if you want a fresh taste or longer for a more robust flavor.
- Balsamic glaze is thicker and sweeter than balsamic vinegar and is essential for the perfect finishing touch.
Keywords: Caprese skewers, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, Italian appetizer, balsamic glaze, easy appetizer, party food, no cook
