Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s something magical about walking into a room filled with the vibrant colors and scents of delicious appetizers. That’s exactly the feeling you’ll get with these Festive Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze. Imagine juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil all skewered together—sounds irresistible, right? These easy appetizers are not only a visual treat, but they’re also a breeze to whip up in under 30 minutes. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, making them a perfect choice for your next holiday gathering. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, these gluten-free delights will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe! Why are Caprese Skewers a Must-Try? Simplicity at Its Best: With no-cook preparation, these skewers are perfect for novice cooks or seasoned chefs alike. Fresh Ingredients: Bursting with juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella, every bite offers a refreshing taste of summer. Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare them in advance for effortless entertaining, allowing you more time to enjoy the company of your guests. Endless Versatility: Feel free to swap ingredients, like using olives or artichoke hearts, for a twist on the classic! Crowd-Pleaser: These vibrant skewers appeal to everyone, making them ideal for parties, picnics, or cozy dinners. Elevate your appetizer game with these delicious and easy Caprese Skewers—they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering! Caprese Skewers Ingredients For the Skewers • Small Mozzarella Balls (Ciliegine) – Provide creamy texture and taste. Substitution: Use larger mozzarella cut into cubes. • Round Cherry Tomatoes – Offer sweetness and freshness. Note: Do not use oval-shaped grape tomatoes for uniformity. • Fresh Basil Leaves – Contributes freshness and aroma. For the Marinade • Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds flavor and aids in marinating the mozzarella. • Dried Italian Seasoning – Enhances the dish with herbal notes. Substitution: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano can be used. • Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning. For the Drizzle • Balsamic Glaze – Provides a sweet and tangy finishing touch. Note: Prefer store-bought for convenience over making a reduction. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Festive Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze Step 1: Marinate the Mozzarella In a medium bowl, combine small mozzarella balls with a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to ensure each mozzarella is evenly coated. Let the mixture marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature. For added convenience, you can prepare this step up to 3 days in advance and store the marinated cheese in the refrigerator. Step 2: Assemble Skewers Grab six-inch bamboo skewers and start the assembly process. Begin by threading on one cherry tomato, followed by a fresh basil leaf, then add two marinated mozzarella balls. Place another basil leaf and finish with another cherry tomato. This colorful arrangement not only looks appealing but also balances the flavors beautifully in each bite. Repeat this until you’ve used all your ingredients. Step 3: Serve with Style Once your Caprese Skewers are complete, arrange them artfully on a serving platter. Just before your guests arrive, drizzle each skewer with balsamic glaze for that perfect sweet-tangy finish. The visual pop of colors will certainly catch everyone’s eye! Serving them immediately allows your guests to enjoy the fresh flavors and the delightful aroma of basil wafting through the air. Storage Tips for Caprese Skewers Fridge: Keep assembled Caprese Skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving to maintain freshness. Freezer: For best quality, avoid freezing Caprese Skewers as the fresh ingredients, especially basil, do not freeze well. Marinated Mozzarella: If you’ve marinated extra mozzarella, store it in the fridge in its marinade for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving to enhance flavors. Reheating: Since these are served cold, no reheating is necessary. Enjoy the refreshing taste of Caprese Skewers straight from the fridge! What to Serve with Festive Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze Elevate your appetizer spread with complementary dishes that enhance the fresh flavors and textures of Caprese Skewers. Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: The warm, smooth soup pairs beautifully with the skewers, offering a satisfying contrast in temperature and flavor. Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy and flavorful, these breadsticks add a delightful texture while the garlic complements the aromas of the skewers. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, this salad brings additional freshness and a burst of color to your table, making for a wholesome meal. Crispy Antipasto Platter: A platter filled with olives, salami, and marinated veggies captures a variety of textures and flavors that beautifully accompany the skewers. Grilled Veggies: Smoky, charred vegetables add a rustic touch, enhancing the Mediterranean theme and balancing the creaminess of the mozzarella. Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio perfectly complements the refreshing notes of the Caprese Skewers, making for a delightful pairing. Transform your gathering into a feast with these delightful pairings that are bound to leave your guests raving about your culinary skills! Expert Tips for Caprese Skewers • Cheese Temperature: Let marinated mozzarella reach room temperature for better flavor. Cold cheese can dull the taste of your Caprese Skewers. • Ingredient Size: Ensure mozzarella and tomatoes are similar in size for even skewering. This also allows for a delightful bite every time! • Assembly Timing: For the freshest taste, assemble skewers closer to serving time. Marinating cheese too early can cause basil to wilt. • Alternate Ingredients: Explore variations by swapping in different herbs or adding ingredients like olives. This keeps your Caprese Skewers exciting and fresh! • Drizzle Wisely: Drizzle balsamic glaze just before serving to prevent sogginess, ensuring every bite is perfectly balanced and delicious. Caprese Skewers Variations & Substitutions Feel free to add your personal touch to these delightful Caprese Skewers for an even more exciting experience! Zesty Twist: Substitute balsamic glaze with lemon basil vinaigrette for a refreshing citrus flavor that brightens each bite. Hearty Addition: Incorporate olives or artichoke hearts into the skewers for a savory pop of flavor and added texture. Vegan Alternative: Replace mozzarella with vegan cheese or marinated tofu to create a plant-based version everyone can enjoy. Veggie Boost: Add colorful bell pepper chunks or cucumber slices for an extra crunch and a burst of freshness. Herbaceous Fun: Experiment with fresh herbs like mint or dill instead of basil for a unique take on the classic flavor profile. Spice it Up: Drizzle some chili oil or sprinkle red pepper flakes for a touch of heat that balances beautifully with the creamy mozzarella. Fruit Fusion: Swap cherry tomatoes with fresh pineapple or peach slices for a fun, sweet contrast that will surprise your guests. Gluten-Free Grains: Skewering the ingredients over gluten-free bread cubes creates a delightful twist that’s equally delicious and satisfying. For a lovely flavor pairing, consider serving these skewers alongside a warm Tomato Basil Soup or a refreshing Caprese Salad. Feel free to check out our variation on Olives, too, for inspiration on enhancing this already delightful appetizer! Make Ahead Options These Festive Caprese Skewers are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors with less fuss on the day of your gathering! You can marinate the mozzarella up to 3 days in advance; just store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. If you want to assemble ahead, prepare the skewers up to 24 hours before serving and keep them covered in the fridge. To prevent the basil from wilting, wait to thread it onto the skewer until the day of serving. When ready to impress your guests, drizzle with balsamic glaze just before presenting for a fresh and vibrant look—saving you time while providing delightful and memorable taste! Caprese Skewers Recipe FAQs What kind of tomatoes should I use for Caprese Skewers? For the best results, use round cherry tomatoes as they provide a burst of sweetness and freshness. It’s important to avoid oval-shaped grape tomatoes, as they can affect the overall uniformity of your skewers. How should I store leftover Caprese Skewers? Store assembled Caprese Skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. For the best flavor, drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant. Can I freeze Caprese Skewers? I do not recommend freezing Caprese Skewers, as the fresh ingredients, especially basil, do not freeze well. Freezing can also alter the texture of mozzarella and tomatoes, diminishing their delightful taste and appearance when thawed. What are common issues when making Caprese Skewers? One common issue is marinating the mozzarella too early, which can lead to wilting basil leaves. To prevent this, assemble your skewers closer to serving time. Always aim for consistent ingredient sizes for even skewering and enjoyable bites! Do Caprese Skewers have any dietary restrictions? These skewers are gluten-free, making them suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. However, if you or your guests have dairy allergies, make sure to substitute the mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also explore using olives instead of cheese for a vegan option. How can I enhance the flavor of my Caprese Skewers? To elevate the flavor, consider experimenting with different herbs. Fresh basil is classic, but alternatives like thyme, rosemary, or a sprinkle of chili flakes can add a delightful twist. Marinating your mozzarella for a longer period (up to 3 days) in olive oil with Italian seasoning can also deepen the taste. Delicious Caprese Skewers: Fresh Flavors on a Stick These Caprese Skewers are a visual delight and a breeze to prepare, featuring juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsMarinating Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 6 skewersCourse: AppetizersCuisine: ItalianCalories: 90 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Skewers8 ounces Small Mozzarella Balls (Ciliegine) Substitution: Use larger mozzarella cut into cubes.1 pint Round Cherry Tomatoes Note: Do not use oval-shaped grape tomatoes for uniformity.15 leaves Fresh Basil LeavesFor the Marinade2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil1 teaspoon Dried Italian Seasoning Substitution: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano can be used.to taste Saltto taste PepperFor the Drizzle1 tablespoon Balsamic Glaze Note: Prefer store-bought for convenience over making a reduction. Equipment Bamboo Skewers Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Festive Caprese Skewers with Balsamic GlazeIn a medium bowl, combine small mozzarella balls with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss gently and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.Grab six-inch bamboo skewers and start assembling. Thread one cherry tomato, a basil leaf, two marinated mozzarella balls, another basil leaf, and finish with another cherry tomato.Arrange the completed skewers on a platter and drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving for the perfect sweet-tangy finish. Nutrition Serving: 1skewerCalories: 90kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 5gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 0.5mg NotesFor best flavor, let marinated mozzarella reach room temperature. Assemble skewers close to serving time to maintain freshness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
