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Fresh Mini Caprese Skewers Recipe Easy Wholesome Appetizer Ideas

Fresh Mini Caprese Skewers - featured image

These Fresh Mini Caprese Skewers with Basil are a quick, easy, and wholesome appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil, finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Perfect for any occasion, they offer a light and flavorful bite that pleases all ages.

Ingredients

  • Cherry tomatoes (ripe, firm, e.g., Sun Gold variety)
  • Mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
  • Fresh basil leaves (small to medium size)
  • Extra virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons)
  • Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade from 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar reduced)
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
  • Wooden toothpicks or small skewers

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves thoroughly to avoid sogginess (about 5 minutes).
  2. If tomatoes are large, slice them in half; leave smaller cherry tomatoes whole (2 minutes).
  3. Drain mozzarella balls on paper towels or a sieve to remove excess moisture (3 minutes).
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper to make a simple dressing (2 minutes).
  5. Assemble each skewer by threading one cherry tomato, a folded basil leaf, and one mozzarella ball onto a toothpick. Repeat until all ingredients are used (10 minutes).
  6. Place the assembled skewers in a shallow dish and drizzle the olive oil dressing over them. Toss gently to coat evenly (2 minutes).
  7. Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the skewers for a sweet, tangy finish. If making glaze at home, simmer 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar until reduced by half and syrupy (optional, 10-15 minutes).
  8. Add a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt or freshly cracked pepper if desired, then arrange skewers on a serving platter (1 minute).

Notes

Dry ingredients well after washing to prevent sogginess. Fold basil leaves to keep them on the skewer. Drizzle balsamic glaze just before serving to maintain freshness. Skewers can be chilled for 10 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. For vegan option, substitute mozzarella with vegan cheese or marinated tofu cubes. Optional grilling for 1-2 minutes per side adds smoky flavor.

Nutrition

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