Easy Fresh Caprese Skewers Recipe with Balsamic Glaze Drizzle for Perfect Appetizers
These Easy Fresh Caprese Skewers combine juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves, all drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze for a quick, flavorful appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes (if making balsamic glaze)
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 12 skewers 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz (225 g) creamy fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1 pint (300 g) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 20 fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3–4 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- About 12 wooden or bamboo skewers (soaked in water for 15 minutes before use)
Instructions
- Rinse the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves under cold water. Pat dry gently with a clean towel. Drain the mozzarella balls well to avoid excess moisture.
- Optional: Make the balsamic glaze by pouring 1 cup (240 ml) balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally and let it reduce by about half until syrupy. Set aside to cool.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella balls and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then toss gently to coat evenly.
- Take a skewer and thread one cherry tomato, followed by a fresh basil leaf (fold if large), then a mozzarella ball. Repeat if desired, leaving space at the end for handling.
- Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle the balsamic glaze evenly over the skewers using a spoon or squeeze bottle, avoiding soaking.
- Optionally, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the skewers for extra crunch and flavor.
Notes
Assemble skewers just before serving to keep basil fresh and prevent mozzarella from becoming soggy. If preparing ahead, toss ingredients in olive oil but skewer and glaze 15 minutes before serving. Pat mozzarella dry to avoid watery skewers. For a warm variation, grill skewers briefly on medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 5.5
- Saturated Fat: 3.5
- Carbohydrates: 2.5
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 3.5
Keywords: Caprese skewers, appetizer, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, balsamic glaze, easy recipe, party food, vegetarian, gluten-free