Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

Total Time: 15 mins Difficulty: Beginner
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Introduction

Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze are a fresh, vibrant, and visually stunning appetizer that captures the essence of classic Italian cuisine in bite-sized form. Inspired by the traditional Caprese salad, these skewers combine juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant fresh basil, all drizzled with a rich, sweet balsamic glaze. They are the perfect balance of freshness, creaminess, and tangy sweetness, creating a light yet flavorful dish.

I love this recipe because it’s simple, elegant, and incredibly versatile. The ingredients are fresh, colorful, and naturally delicious, requiring minimal preparation but delivering maximum impact. These skewers are perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or a casual summer snack. They’re not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making any table look inviting and festive.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Caprese Skewers recipe because it’s effortless yet sophisticated. Each skewer delivers a perfect harmony of flavors: the sweetness and juiciness of tomatoes, the creamy texture of mozzarella, the herbal freshness of basil, and the tangy-sweet punch of balsamic glaze. I also love that it’s a no-cook recipe, which makes it perfect for quick entertaining or last-minute appetizers.

What makes it even more special is the visual appeal. The combination of red, white, and green creates a stunning, vibrant presentation that reflects the Italian flag and instantly elevates any table. Making these skewers is also fun and customizable, allowing creativity while keeping preparation simple.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Caprese Salad Skewers are a must-try because they are fresh, flavorful, and universally loved. They are light, healthy, and perfect for warm-weather gatherings or anytime you want a quick appetizer that impresses. The skewers transform a classic Italian salad into a portable, bite-sized treat that’s easy to serve and enjoy.

This dish is ideal for entertaining because it’s easy to assemble ahead of time, looks elegant, and pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes such as pasta, grilled meats, or charcuterie boards. It’s also a great way to showcase seasonal ingredients at their peak. For anyone who loves fresh, vibrant flavors with minimal effort, this recipe is a must-have.

Recipe Overview

  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Course: Appetizer / Starter
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no-cook recipe)
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 6-8 skewers
  • Calories (per skewer): ~100 kcal

Ingredients

  • 18 cherry or grape tomatoes
  • 18 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
  • 18 fresh basil leaves
  • 18 wooden or bamboo skewers (6-inch)
  • 3 tbsp balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish:

  • Cracked black pepper
  • Flaky sea salt

Cooking Directions

  1. Prepare the ingredients: Wash and dry cherry tomatoes and basil leaves. Drain mozzarella balls if packed in water.
  2. Assemble skewers: Thread one cherry tomato, one basil leaf (folded if large), and one mozzarella ball onto each skewer. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
  3. Season and drizzle: Arrange skewers on a serving platter. Lightly drizzle with olive oil (optional) and balsamic glaze. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  4. Serve immediately: Enjoy fresh as a colorful, bite-sized appetizer.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

  1. Wash and prep ingredients: Rinse tomatoes and basil, drain mozzarella.
  2. Prepare skewers: Hold skewer and thread tomato first.
  3. Add basil: Fold large basil leaves in half and slide onto skewer after tomato.
  4. Add mozzarella: Add a mozzarella ball to complete the trio.
  5. Repeat: Continue assembling until all skewers are made.
  6. Plate skewers: Arrange neatly on a serving platter.
  7. Drizzle and season: Pour balsamic glaze over skewers, drizzle olive oil if desired, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  8. Serve: Enjoy immediately for the freshest flavor.

How to Serve

  • Serve on a platter as a colorful appetizer at parties, brunches, or holiday gatherings.
  • Pair with a charcuterie board, fresh bread, or light pasta dishes.
  • Add extra balsamic glaze at the table for a decorative and flavorful touch.

Recipe Tips

  • Use the freshest ingredients possible for the best flavor.
  • Fold large basil leaves to fit the skewers neatly.
  • Drizzle balsamic glaze just before serving to prevent sogginess.
  • Chill skewers briefly before serving for a refreshing bite.

Variations

  1. Caprese with Prosciutto: Add a folded slice of prosciutto between the tomato and mozzarella.
  2. Avocado Caprese Skewers: Add a small cube of ripe avocado for creaminess.
  3. Pesto Drizzle: Replace or add to balsamic glaze with a spoonful of basil pesto.
  4. Grilled Caprese Skewers: Lightly grill tomatoes and mozzarella for a smoky twist.
  5. Fruit Twist: Add a small slice of strawberry or melon for a sweet-savory combination.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage: Best served fresh. Can store in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before serving.
  • Freezing: Not recommended, as fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella lose texture when frozen.

Special Equipment Needed

  • Wooden or bamboo skewers (6-inch)
  • Small serving platter
  • Spoon or squeeze bottle for balsamic glaze

Conclusion

Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze are a fresh, elegant, and incredibly easy-to-make appetizer that captures the flavors of Italy in a bite-sized form. With juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze, these skewers are a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Perfect for entertaining, casual gatherings, or as a healthy snack, they are a must-try recipe for anyone who loves fresh, vibrant flavors and simple, sophisticated presentation.

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Print Recipe

Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

Author: Laura Bennett Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Total Time 15 mins
Calories: (per skewer): ~100 kcal

Description

Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze are a fresh, vibrant, and visually stunning appetizer that captures the essence of classic Italian cuisine in bite-sized form.

Ingredients

Optional Garnish:

Instructions

  1. Wash and prep ingredients: Rinse tomatoes and basil, drain mozzarella.
  2. Prepare skewers: Hold skewer and thread tomato first.
  3. Add basil: Fold large basil leaves in half and slide onto skewer after tomato.
  4. Add mozzarella: Add a mozzarella ball to complete the trio.
  5. Repeat: Continue assembling until all skewers are made.
  6. Plate skewers: Arrange neatly on a serving platter.
  7. Drizzle and season: Pour balsamic glaze over skewers, drizzle olive oil if desired, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  8. Serve: Enjoy immediately for the freshest flavor.
Keywords: Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
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Frequently Asked Questions

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Q: Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

A: Yes, assemble the skewers and refrigerate for up to 4 hours. Drizzle balsamic glaze just before serving.

Q: Can I use regular mozzarella instead of mini balls?

A: Yes, cut into small cubes that fit neatly on skewers.

Q: Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

A: Absolutely, either works fine.

Q: Can I make balsamic glaze at home?

A: Yes, simmer balsamic vinegar over low heat until it reduces by half and thickens.

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