Fresh Caprese Skewers Recipe Easy Elegant Appetizer with Balsamic Glaze
A quick and elegant appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a sweet tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for any occasion and easy to assemble in under 15 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 20 skewers 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 20 cherry tomatoes, washed
- 20 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
- 20 fresh basil leaves, washed and dried
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- About 20 wooden skewers or toothpicks (6-inch skewers recommended)
Instructions
- Rinse the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves, then pat dry carefully. Drain the mozzarella balls well to avoid excess moisture.
- Optional: Make the balsamic glaze by pouring 1/2 cup (120 ml) balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon honey into a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until reduced by half and syrupy, about 8-10 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- Assemble the skewers by threading one cherry tomato first, followed by a folded basil leaf, then a mozzarella ball. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
- Place the skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the skewers just before serving.
Notes
Use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes and tender basil leaves for best flavor. Fold basil leaves gently when threading to keep skewers intact. Assemble skewers just before serving to keep basil fresh and mozzarella from becoming soggy. If making balsamic glaze, simmer on medium-low heat and stir frequently to avoid burning. For dairy-free option, substitute mozzarella with marinated tofu cubes. Skewers can be lightly grilled for 1-2 minutes per side for a warm, smoky flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 75
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 90
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 3
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 4
Keywords: Caprese skewers, appetizer, balsamic glaze, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, easy recipe, party food, quick appetizer