Caprese Salad Skewers

It’s funny how some of the simplest recipes become absolute staples in your kitchen. For me, Caprese Salad Skewers are one of those magical dishes. The first time I made them was for a last-minute summer barbecue, and honestly, I wasn’t expecting much more than a passable appetizer. Boy, was I wrong! From the moment I put them out, they were a hit. The vibrant colors, the fresh, clean flavors – they were irresistible. Even my kids, who can be notoriously picky eaters, devoured them. My husband declared them “addictively delicious,” and they disappeared faster than I could say “mozzarella.” Since then, Caprese Salad Skewers have become my go-to for everything from casual weeknight snacks to elegant party appetizers. They are incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both stunningly simple and utterly delicious, look no further. These skewers are about to become your new favorite too!

Ingredients

• Cherry Tomatoes: About 1 pint, choose ripe, firm cherry tomatoes. A mix of red, yellow, and orange tomatoes adds visual appeal and a variety of sweetness.
• Fresh Mozzarella Balls (Bocconcini): 8 ounces, look for small, fresh mozzarella balls, often labeled bocconcini or ciliegine. These are the perfect size for skewers and offer a milky, soft texture.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: 1 bunch, opt for fresh, vibrant green basil leaves. Their aromatic and slightly peppery flavor is essential to the classic Caprese taste.
• Balsamic Glaze: ¼ cup, a thick, sweet, and tangy reduction of balsamic vinegar. It adds a beautiful drizzle and depth of flavor.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (optional), high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavors and adds a touch of richness.
• Sea Salt: To taste, coarse or flaky sea salt is ideal for bringing out the flavors of the ingredients.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To taste, freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle spice and complexity.
• Wooden Skewers: 6-inch skewers, you’ll need approximately 20-24 skewers, depending on how many components you put on each.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tomatoes and Basil: Gently wash the cherry tomatoes under cool running water and pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Similarly, wash the fresh basil leaves and dry them thoroughly. Removing excess moisture is crucial for the glaze and oil to adhere properly and to prevent soggy skewers.
2. Prepare the Mozzarella: If your mozzarella balls are packed in water, drain them well. Some bocconcini are sold pre-marinated in oil and herbs, which can add an extra layer of flavor if you prefer. If using plain mozzarella, simply drain and pat them dry.
3. Assemble the Skewers: Now for the fun part – assembling the skewers! Take a wooden skewer and start by threading a cherry tomato onto it. Follow with a fresh mozzarella ball, and then fold a basil leaf in half or roll it up and thread it onto the skewer. Repeat this pattern – tomato, mozzarella, basil – until the skewer is nicely filled, leaving a little space at each end for easy handling. Typically, 3-4 components of each ingredient per skewer is a good amount, but you can adjust based on your preference and skewer length.
4. Arrange on a Platter: As you assemble the skewers, arrange them neatly on a serving platter or a large plate. This will make it easy to drizzle with the balsamic glaze and olive oil and for guests to grab them.
5. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze and Olive Oil (Optional): Once all the skewers are arranged, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Slowly drizzle the balsamic glaze over the skewers in a zigzag pattern. The glaze adds a beautiful visual appeal and a burst of sweet and tangy flavor that complements the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil perfectly. If using olive oil, lightly drizzle it over the skewers as well. This adds a touch of richness and enhances the overall flavor profile, especially if you are using high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
6. Season with Salt and Pepper: Finally, season the Caprese skewers generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sprinkle the salt evenly over the tomatoes and mozzarella. The salt is crucial for bringing out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and the milky flavor of the mozzarella. Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and spice that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and balsamic glaze.
7. Serve Immediately or Chill: Caprese Salad Skewers are best served fresh and immediately to enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures at their peak. However, you can also chill them in the refrigerator for up to a couple of hours before serving if you need to prepare them ahead of time. If chilling, it’s best to add the balsamic glaze and olive oil just before serving to prevent the basil from wilting and the tomatoes from becoming too cold.

Nutrition Facts

(Per serving, approximately 2 skewers. Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.)

• Servings: 12 (approximately 24 skewers, 2 skewers per serving)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 180-220 calories. This is a relatively light and healthy appetizer, perfect for those watching their calorie intake.
• Fat: Approximately 12-15 grams of fat per serving. This is primarily from the mozzarella and olive oil, consisting of healthy fats.
• Protein: Approximately 8-10 grams of protein per serving. The mozzarella is a good source of protein, contributing to satiety.
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 8-10 grams of carbohydrates per serving. These carbs mainly come from the tomatoes and the balsamic glaze, which contains natural sugars.
• Sodium: Approximately 200-300 mg of sodium per serving. This amount can vary based on the type of mozzarella and the amount of salt added.

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 20 minutes. This recipe is incredibly quick to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings or when you need a fast and impressive appetizer.
• Prep Time: 10 minutes. This includes washing and drying the ingredients, and draining the mozzarella.
• Assembly Time: 10 minutes. Threading the skewers is a breeze and can even be a fun task to involve kids in.

How to Serve Caprese Salad Skewers

Caprese Salad Skewers are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, making them perfect for numerous occasions:

• Appetizer at Parties and Gatherings: They are visually appealing and easy to eat, making them an ideal appetizer for cocktail parties, barbecues, potlucks, and holiday gatherings. Their vibrant colors and refreshing taste are always a welcome addition to any appetizer spread.
• Side Dish for BBQs and Picnics: Bring a platter of Caprese skewers to your next BBQ or picnic. They complement grilled meats, salads, and other picnic fare beautifully, offering a light and refreshing counterpoint to heavier dishes.
• Light Lunch or Snack: Enjoy a few Caprese skewers for a satisfying and healthy light lunch or afternoon snack. Pair them with some whole-wheat crackers or a small side salad for a more substantial meal.
• Part of an Italian Antipasto Platter: Incorporate Caprese skewers into a larger Italian antipasto platter. Arrange them alongside olives, cured meats, cheeses, marinated vegetables, and crusty bread for a stunning and flavorful starter course.
• Accompaniment to Grilled Chicken or Fish: Serve Caprese skewers as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or steak. The fresh, bright flavors of the skewers cut through the richness of grilled proteins, creating a balanced and delicious meal.
• On a Charcuterie Board: Add Caprese skewers to your charcuterie board for a pop of color and freshness. They provide a welcome contrast to the savory meats and cheeses and add a vegetarian-friendly option.
• With Crusty Bread: Serve Caprese skewers alongside slices of toasted crusty bread or baguette. Guests can either eat the skewers as is or remove the components and enjoy them on the bread, creating mini Caprese toasts.

Additional Tips for Perfect Caprese Salad Skewers

To elevate your Caprese Salad Skewers from delicious to extraordinary, here are some helpful tips and variations:

1. Marinate the Mozzarella: For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the mozzarella balls before assembling the skewers. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Add the mozzarella balls and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight in the refrigerator). This infuses the mozzarella with aromatic flavors.
2. Use Different Types of Tomatoes: Experiment with different varieties of cherry or grape tomatoes. Heirloom cherry tomatoes, sungold tomatoes, or even teardrop tomatoes can add unique flavors and colors to your skewers. A mix of colors is especially visually appealing.
3. Add Grilled Vegetables: Take your Caprese skewers to the next level by adding grilled vegetables. Grilled zucchini, bell peppers (especially red or yellow), or even grilled red onion pieces can be threaded onto the skewers along with the classic Caprese ingredients. Grilling adds a smoky sweetness that complements the other flavors.
4. Include Prosciutto or Salami: For a non-vegetarian option and to add a salty, savory element, incorporate thinly sliced prosciutto or salami. Fold slices of prosciutto or salami and thread them onto the skewers between the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. This adds a delightful salty and meaty contrast to the fresh flavors.
5. Use Pesto Instead of Balsamic Glaze: If you’re not a fan of balsamic glaze, or want to try a different flavor profile, use pesto instead. Drizzle a high-quality pesto (either store-bought or homemade) over the assembled skewers. Pesto adds a vibrant, herbaceous, and nutty flavor that is delicious with tomatoes and mozzarella.
6. Add a Sprinkle of Red Pepper Flakes: For a subtle kick of heat, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the assembled skewers along with the salt and pepper. This adds a pleasant warmth that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and balsamic glaze.
7. Make it Vegan (Vegan Mozzarella): To make vegan Caprese skewers, simply substitute the fresh mozzarella balls with vegan mozzarella balls. There are several brands of plant-based mozzarella available that melt and taste surprisingly similar to dairy mozzarella. Ensure your balsamic glaze is also vegan-friendly (most are).
8. Prepare Components Ahead of Time: To save time when assembling, you can prepare the components in advance. Wash and dry the tomatoes and basil, and drain the mozzarella. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. You can even thread the tomatoes and mozzarella onto the skewers a few hours ahead of time and keep them chilled, adding the basil and balsamic glaze just before serving to maintain freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Caprese Salad Skewers

Here are some common questions people ask about making and serving Caprese Salad Skewers:

1. Can I make Caprese Salad Skewers ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Wash and dry the tomatoes and basil, drain the mozzarella, and store them separately in the refrigerator. You can even assemble the skewers with just tomatoes and mozzarella a few hours in advance. However, it’s best to add the basil, balsamic glaze, and olive oil just before serving to maintain optimal freshness and prevent the basil from wilting.
2. How long do Caprese Salad Skewers last in the refrigerator?
   • Assembled Caprese Salad Skewers are best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Keep in mind that the basil may wilt slightly, and the tomatoes might become a bit softer over time. It’s best to consume them within 24 hours for the best quality.
3. Can I use regular mozzarella instead of bocconcini?
   • Yes, you can use regular fresh mozzarella if you can’t find bocconcini. Simply cut a block of fresh mozzarella into bite-sized cubes that are similar in size to cherry tomatoes. The taste will be very similar, although bocconcini are specifically designed for bite-sized appetizers like skewers.
4. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?
   • While fresh basil is highly recommended for the best flavor and authentic Caprese taste, you can use dried basil in a pinch. However, the flavor will be significantly less vibrant and aromatic. If using dried basil, you could consider incorporating it into a marinade for the mozzarella or sprinkle a very small amount finely over the skewers. Fresh basil leaves are truly essential for the classic Caprese experience.
5. What if I don’t have balsamic glaze? Can I use balsamic vinegar?
   • If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can easily make a quick balsamic reduction using balsamic vinegar. In a small saucepan, simmer balsamic vinegar over medium-low heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until it reduces and thickens to a glaze-like consistency. Let it cool slightly before drizzling over the skewers. You can also use plain balsamic vinegar in a very light drizzle, but the glaze offers a sweeter and thicker texture that is more desirable.
6. Can I add other vegetables to Caprese Salad Skewers?
   • Absolutely! Caprese skewers are versatile. You can add other vegetables like cucumber slices, bell pepper pieces (red, yellow, or orange), artichoke hearts (marinated), or olives. Grilled vegetables like zucchini or eggplant are also fantastic additions. Just ensure any added vegetables are cut into bite-sized pieces suitable for threading onto skewers.
7. Are Caprese Salad Skewers kid-friendly?
   • Yes, Caprese Salad Skewers are generally kid-friendly! The simple, fresh flavors and fun skewer format often appeal to children. The mild taste of mozzarella, the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and the subtle basil flavor are usually well-received by younger palates. You can even involve kids in the assembly process, making it a fun and interactive snack or appetizer.
8. Can I easily make a large batch of Caprese Salad Skewers for a party?
   • Yes, Caprese Salad Skewers are perfect for making in large batches. The recipe is easily scalable. Simply multiply the ingredient quantities based on the number of skewers you need. The assembly process is relatively quick, especially if you have helpers. They are a visually impressive and crowd-pleasing appetizer for any large gathering.

Print