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Fresh Red White and Blue Caprese Skewers Easy Patriotic Appetizer Recipe

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These bite-sized skewers combine fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and blueberries with a sweet balsamic reduction for a festive and easy appetizer perfect for summer gatherings and patriotic occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pint fresh cherry tomatoes (red, firm, and ripe)
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries (washed and dried)
  • 1 small bunch fresh basil leaves (bright green, tender)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 20–25 wooden skewers or toothpicks (soaked in water for 10 minutes if grilling)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the balsamic reduction: Pour 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon of honey or brown sugar if desired. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces by half and thickens to coat the back of a spoon, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Rinse cherry tomatoes and blueberries thoroughly and pat dry. Drain and pat dry mozzarella balls. Tear basil leaves into medium pieces if large.
  3. In a mixing bowl, gently toss mozzarella and cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
  4. Assemble the skewers by threading one cherry tomato, one basil leaf (folded if large), one mozzarella ball, and one blueberry onto each toothpick or skewer. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
  5. Arrange skewers on a serving platter and drizzle the cooled balsamic reduction evenly over them just before serving.
  6. Optionally, sprinkle extra torn basil leaves around the platter for garnish.

Notes

Soak wooden skewers in water for 10 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Assemble skewers ahead but add balsamic reduction just before serving to keep fresh. For dairy-free, substitute mozzarella with marinated tofu or vegan cheese balls. Blueberries can be swapped with blackberries or grapes. Grilling skewers briefly adds smoky flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, patriotic appetizer, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, blueberries, balsamic reduction, summer appetizer, easy appetizer, Fourth of July recipe

Find it online: https://eliplate.com/fresh-red-white-and-blue-caprese-skewers-easy-patriotic-appetizer-recipe/