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Easy Fresh Caprese Skewers Recipe with Balsamic Glaze for Perfect Appetizers

Easy Fresh Caprese Skewers - featured image

A simple, fresh appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves drizzled with a sweet tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for quick entertaining and light bites.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pint (about 250g) cherry tomatoes, ripe and firm
  • 8 ounces (225g) fresh mozzarella balls (Bocconcini or Ciliegine), drained
  • 1 small bunch (about 20 leaves) fresh basil leaves, whole and unblemished
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • About 20 wooden skewers or toothpicks
  • Optional: 1 small clove fresh garlic, minced
  • Optional: Dash of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Rinse basil leaves gently under cold water and pat dry. Place in a mixing bowl, drizzle with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, and toss lightly to coat.
  2. Drain mozzarella balls well on paper towels. If using larger balls, slice into bite-sized pieces about 1 inch thick.
  3. Thread skewers starting with one cherry tomato, then a basil leaf, followed by a mozzarella ball or piece. Repeat 2-3 sets per skewer, leaving space at the end for handling.
  4. Arrange skewers on a serving platter and sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  5. To make homemade balsamic glaze, pour 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until thick and syrupy (about 8-10 minutes). Let cool slightly.
  6. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the skewers just before serving.

Notes

Toss basil leaves in olive oil before threading to keep them glossy and aromatic. Make balsamic glaze slowly to avoid bitterness. Assemble skewers shortly before serving and drizzle glaze last to keep presentation fresh. Optional additions include minced garlic, red pepper flakes, or prosciutto slices for variation.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, appetizer, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, balsamic glaze, easy recipe, party food, vegetarian