Caprese Skewers
Caprese Skewers are the perfect bite-sized tribute to the beloved Italian salad that celebrates the simple, fresh flavors of summer. Juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil leaves come together on a skewer, then get a quick drizzle of tangy balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of salt and pepper for that classic Caprese taste. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a fresh appetizer, or need a quick snack, these Caprese Skewers are vibrant, delicious, and incredibly easy to throw together.
Why It’s My Go-To
There are so many reasons why Caprese Skewers have become a staple in my kitchen. First off, they’re ridiculously simple to prepare—no cooking required, just fresh ingredients assembled in minutes. They’re visually stunning, too, with that irresistible pop of red, white, and green that instantly brightens up any table. Plus, they’re naturally light and refreshing, making them a perfect appetizer or snack for any season. The balance of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and herbaceous basil hits all the right flavor notes, and the balsamic vinegar adds that subtle zing that pulls everything together. If you’re craving something fresh but crave-worthy, this is it.
What’s in the Bowl
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes – Look for firm, ripe tomatoes bursting with color for the best flavor.
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls – Also called bocconcini or ciliegine, these small mozzarella balls are perfect for skewering.
- Fresh basil leaves – Aromatic and bright, basil is the herb that makes this Caprese magic happen.
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar – Adds a sweet-tart punch to elevate every bite.
- Salt to taste – Enhances and balances the flavors.
- Black pepper to taste – Freshly ground pepper adds a subtle heat.
- Skewers – Wooden or bamboo skewers work great, just soak wooden ones in water first to avoid burning if you plan to grill them.
Before You Start: Equipment
- Cutting board – For prepping basil leaves and any trimming.
- Small bowl – To mix balsamic vinegar with salt and pepper for easy drizzling.
- Serving platter – Choose something colorful or rustic to showcase your skewers beautifully.
- Kitchen towel – To pat the mozzarella balls dry if needed, ensuring they don’t get soggy.
The Method for Caprese Skewers
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by rinsing your cherry tomatoes and basil leaves under cold water. Pat them dry gently with a kitchen towel. Drain the mozzarella balls well to remove any excess liquid, which helps keep your skewers from getting watery.
Step 2: Assemble the Skewers
Take a skewer and thread one cherry tomato, followed by a fresh basil leaf (folded if large), and then a mozzarella ball. Repeat this pattern until your skewer is filled, leaving about an inch of space at the bottom to hold comfortably. Repeat until all ingredients are used up.
Step 3: Dress Them Up
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle this mixture generously over the assembled skewers. The balsamic vinegar adds a rich, tangy depth that complements the creamy mozzarella and sweet tomatoes perfectly.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the skewers on your serving platter. They’re ready to serve immediately, but letting them sit for 10 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve as a delightful appetizer or alongside your favorite main dishes.
International Equivalents
- Italy: The original Caprese salad, served sliced on a plate with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
- Greece: Similar skewers with feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, and oregano.
- France: Using fresh goat cheese instead of mozzarella for a tangier bite.
- Mexico: Skewers with cherry tomatoes, queso fresco, and a sprinkle of chili powder instead of basil.
Easy-to-Miss Gotchas
- Moisture Matters: Be sure to drain and dry mozzarella balls well, or your skewers can get soggy and slide apart.
- Basil Freshness: Using fresh basil is non-negotiable. Wilted or old basil will dull the flavor.
- Balance Your Vinegar: Too much balsamic vinegar can overpower the delicate flavors. Start with less, then taste and add more if needed.
- Skewer Size: Don’t overload your skewers. Three components per skewer make for easy eating and a balanced flavor in each bite.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can prepare the components a few hours in advance—wash and dry the tomatoes and basil, and drain the mozzarella. Assemble the skewers just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant. If you need to store assembled skewers, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 hours. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar just before serving to avoid sogginess.
Popular Questions
Can I use regular mozzarella instead of mozzarella balls?
Yes! If you can’t find fresh mozzarella balls, you can cut a block of fresh mozzarella into bite-sized cubes. Just make sure they’re firm enough to hold their shape on the skewers.
Can I grill these skewers?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a smoky char that pairs beautifully with the fresh ingredients. Just soak wooden skewers in water first to prevent burning and grill on medium heat for a couple of minutes per side until the cheese is slightly golden. If you want more grilled inspiration, check out Grilled Halloumi And Vegetable Skewers Salad.
What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar on hand, a good-quality red wine vinegar mixed with a touch of honey or sugar can mimic that sweet-tart flavor. Just adjust the sweetness to your taste.
Are Caprese Skewers gluten-free?
Yes, these skewers contain no gluten ingredients and are naturally gluten-free, making them a great option for anyone with gluten sensitivities.
What to Make After This
- Margherita Pizza On The Grill – Carry those same fresh tomato, mozzarella, and basil flavors onto a smoky, grilled pizza crust.
- Pasta With Fresh Tomato Sauce And Basil – A simple, comforting pasta that celebrates the same fresh ingredients in a cozy way.
Bring It to the Table
When it’s time to serve your Caprese Skewers, presentation is key. Arrange them neatly on a bright platter or rustic wooden board to highlight the vibrant colors. A light drizzle of extra balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving adds a professional touch. These skewers pair wonderfully with chilled white wine or sparkling water with a splash of lemon. Whether it’s a casual get-together, a picnic, or a fancy dinner party, these little bites bring a fresh, elegant vibe that everyone will love.
Caprese Skewers are a timeless crowd-pleaser that bring the essence of Italian summer to your table with minimal effort. Their simplicity is what makes them so perfect—no complicated steps, just fresh, quality ingredients that shine. So next time you want a fast, fresh, and flavorful appetizer, you know exactly what to reach for.
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Caprese Skewers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by rinsing your cherry tomatoes and basil leaves under cold water. Pat them dry gently with a kitchen towel. Drain the mozzarella balls well to remove any excess liquid.
- Take a skewer and thread one cherry tomato, followed by a fresh basil leaf (folded if large), and then a mozzarella ball. Repeat this pattern until your skewer is filled, leaving about an inch of space at the bottom to hold comfortably. Repeat until all ingredients are used up.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle this mixture generously over the assembled skewers.
- Arrange the skewers on your serving platter. Serve immediately or let them sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
- Drain and dry mozzarella balls well to prevent soggy skewers.
- Use fresh basil leaves for the best flavor and aroma.
- Drizzle balsamic vinegar just before serving to avoid sogginess.
- Wooden skewers should be soaked in water before grilling to prevent burning.
- Substitute fresh mozzarella balls with bite-sized cubes of regular mozzarella if needed.
