Name: Caprese Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning; Salt (to taste); Freshly Ground Pepper (to taste); 24 Cherry Tomatoes; 24 Mini Mozzarella Cheese Balls; 24 Fresh Basil Leaves; 2 tablespoons Balsamic Glaze

Jump to Recipe

If there’s one appetizer that instantly brings sunshine and a dash of Italian flair to any table, it’s this Caprese Skewers Recipe. Imagine the juiciest cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, creamy mozzarella, and a glossy drizzle of balsamic glaze — all in one irresistible bite. Whether you’re prepping for a backyard BBQ, a fancy dinner party, or a simple lunch alfresco, these skewers are both stunning and incredibly simple. Each mouthful bursts with flavor and freshness, making this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you’ll return to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The true magic of the Caprese Skewers Recipe lies in its simplicity: you only need a handful of top-notch ingredients, and each one truly shines. Every element plays a starring role, from the sweet tomatoes to the aromatic basil, ensuring every bite pops with vibrant color and taste.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Use a flavorful oil for luscious richness and an authentic Mediterranean note.
Italian Seasoning: Adds herby complexity and ties all the fresh flavors together beautifully.
Salt (to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors; flaky sea salt works wonders here.
Freshly Ground Pepper (to taste): Lends a gentle kick and a peppery aroma that balances the creamy cheese.
Cherry Tomatoes (24): Opt for the ripest, juiciest ones you can find — they’re the star of every bite.
Mini Mozzarella Cheese Balls (24): These “ciliegine” are bite-sized and delightfully creamy, perfect for skewering.
Fresh Basil Leaves (24): Choose leaves that are bright green and fragrant, and fold them for the best shape (and flavor burst).
Balsamic Glaze (2 tablespoons): This sweet-tart drizzle adds a glossy finish and tons of flavor dimension.

How to Make Caprese Skewers Recipe

Step 1: Season the Olive Oil

Begin by pouring your extra virgin olive oil into a small bowl. Stir in the Italian seasoning, a few pinches of salt, and some freshly ground black pepper. This simple step transforms your olive oil into a herb-infused marinade that will seep into the mozzarella and deepen its flavor.

Step 2: Marinate the Mozzarella

Add the mini mozzarella cheese balls to the seasoned oil mixture and gently toss until each piece is evenly coated. Let the mozzarella marinate for at least 30 minutes — but if you have the patience, pop the bowl in the fridge overnight. The longer it sits, the richer and more aromatic the cheese becomes, absorbing all the delicious herbal notes.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Gather your cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and marinated mozzarella balls, then start threading them onto mini skewers. Insert a cherry tomato, followed by a folded basil leaf (to unlock more aroma and help it fit nicely), then finish with a mozzarella ball. Repeat this assembly line until all the ingredients are used up and your platter is brimming with color.

Step 4: Drizzle and Serve

Arrange your skewers on your favorite serving platter. Generously drizzle the balsamic glaze in zigzags over the top, and if you have any herby oil left from marinating the cheese, a second drizzle really amps up the flavor. Serve immediately and watch them disappear right before your eyes!

How to Serve Caprese Skewers Recipe

Garnishes

A little extra flourishes can take your Caprese Skewers Recipe from delicious to dazzling. Try a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, freshly cracked pepper, or even a few pine nuts for crunch. A final scattering of tiny basil leaves or edible flowers is always eye-catching for a festive presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair these skewers with crusty Italian bread, a bowl of olives, or a platter of cured meats for a true antipasto experience. They also make a refreshing complement to grilled chicken, seafood, or cold pasta salads, balancing out richer flavors with their bright, fresh bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual picnic, tuck the Caprese Skewers Recipe into mason jars or shot glasses for easy, portable servings. Hosting a fancier party? Arrange the skewers in a circular wreath on a platter or insert them upright into a loaf of focaccia for a stunning centerpiece. For mini appetizers, try using toothpicks instead of skewers for cocktail-friendly bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Caprese Skewers Recipe can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to two days. Just be sure to keep them gently wrapped so the basil doesn’t wilt, and enjoy them chilled or at cool room temperature for the freshest taste.

Freezing

This isn’t a dish that loves the freezer, as fresh mozzarella and tomatoes tend to lose their best texture after thawing. For optimal results, only assemble what you’ll eat within a couple of days and leave the rest to enjoy fresh.

Reheating

These skewers are best served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat them. If you do want to revive their flavor, simply bring leftovers out of the fridge about 20 minutes before serving to take the chill off.

FAQs

Can I use regular mozzarella instead of mini balls?

Absolutely! Just cut the mozzarella into bite-sized cubes so they fit nicely onto your skewers. The key is to keep each piece similar in size to the tomatoes for the perfect bite.

What can I use if I don’t have balsamic glaze?

You can easily make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until it’s thick and syrupy, or use a high-quality aged balsamic vinegar for a quick substitute. It won’t be as sweet, but it’ll still add fantastic flavor.

How far in advance can I assemble the Caprese Skewers Recipe?

You can build the skewers up to 12 hours ahead — just store them covered in the fridge. For best results, add the balsamic glaze just before serving so everything stays fresh and vibrant.

Are there other herbs I can use besides basil?

Basil is classic for this dish, but you can experiment with baby arugula or even fresh oregano for a slightly different flavor profile. Feel free to get creative if you’re out of basil!

Can I make this Caprese Skewers Recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute the mozzarella balls with vegan mozzarella or firm tofu, and use a balsamic glaze that’s completely plant-based. The results will be just as eye-catching and delicious.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a fresh, colorful, and utterly impressive appetizer, you really can’t beat this Caprese Skewers Recipe. It’s as easy as it is elegant and always a hit at gatherings or casual lunches alike. Give it a try — I have a feeling this will soon be a favorite in your kitchen, too!

Caprese Skewers Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 21 reviews

Author: Lila
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 24 skewers 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Caprese Skewers are a delightful twist on the classic Italian Caprese salad. Easy to assemble and bursting with fresh flavors, they make a perfect appetizer for any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Seasoned Olive Oil:

2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
Salt (to taste)
Freshly Ground Pepper (to taste)

Skewers:

24 Cherry Tomatoes
24 Mini Mozzarella Cheese Balls
24 Fresh Basil Leaves

Finishing:

2 tablespoons Balsamic Glaze

Instructions

Prepare Seasoned Olive Oil: In a bowl, mix extra virgin olive oil with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Marinate Mozzarella: Add mini mozzarella balls to the seasoned oil, toss to coat, and marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight in the fridge for enhanced flavors.
Assemble Skewers: Thread a cherry tomato, folded basil leaf, and marinated mozzarella ball onto mini skewers.
Finish and Serve: Drizzle the assembled skewers with balsamic glaze and seasoned olive oil. Serve and enjoy!