Caprese skewers are the ten-minute appetizer that tastes like an Italian summer: juicy grape tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil threaded on sticks and drizzled with a simple balsamic vinaigrette. No cooking, no stress, and only 1.6 g of carbs per serving. They're the first thing gone at a picnic or party, every time.
Looking for an appetizer that’s effortlessly elegant and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavor? Meet your new go-to: Caprese Skewers! These delightful bites capture the essence of an Italian summer on a stick, layering juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Drizzled with a simple balsamic vinaigrette, they’re the perfect no-cook solution for parties, picnics, or a light and healthy snack. Ready in just 10 minutes, they prove that the most delicious things are often the simplest.
Ingredients
• 24 grape or cherry tomatoes
• 12 small mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
• 24 large fresh basil leaves
• 3 tablespoons / 45 ml (1.5 fl oz) extra virgin olive oil
• 2 teaspoons / 10 ml (0.3 fl oz) balsamic vinegar
• Flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Directions
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season lightly with salt and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
3. Assemble the skewers. On each of 12 small skewers, thread one grape tomato, followed by a folded basil leaf, one mozzarella ball, another folded basil leaf, and a final grape tomato.
4. Arrange the completed skewers on a serving platter and drizzle generously with the balsamic vinaigrette.
5. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors.
Nutritional Information
• Nutrition
• Serving Size: 3 skewers. Calories: 45.4 kcal, Protein: 2.3g (0.08 oz), Carbohydrates: 1.6g. (0.06 oz) *Please note that is an estimate and may vary based on the specific used.
Pro Tips
• For a richer, sweeter flavor, use a thick balsamic glaze instead of vinegar. You can buy it pre-made or make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until it reduces by half.
• Marinate the mozzarella balls in the olive oil and a pinch of salt for 15-20 minutes before assembling for an extra layer of flavor.
• To make ahead, assemble the skewers up to 4 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Drizzle with the vinaigrette just before serving to keep the basil fresh and vibrant.
• Gently fold or “cup” the basil leaves as you thread them onto the skewer. This prevents tearing and releases more of their aromatic oils.
FAQ
Q: Can I make Caprese skewers ahead of time
A: Yes, you can assemble the skewers up to 4 hours in advance. Cover and store them in the refrigerator. For the best results, wait to drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette until just before you serve them to keep the basil fresh and vibrant.
Q: What is the best mozzarella for Caprese skewers
A: Small, fresh mozzarella balls, often labeled as bocconcini or ciliegine, are the best choice. Their bite-size shape is perfect for skewers, and their creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the juicy tomatoes and fresh basil.
Q: How can I add more flavor to these skewers
A: For an extra layer of flavor, try marinating the mozzarella balls in olive oil and a pinch of salt for 15-20 minutes before assembling. You can also use a thick, sweet balsamic glaze instead of balsamic vinegar for a richer taste.
Q: What tomatoes work best for this recipe
A: Grape or cherry tomatoes are ideal for Caprese skewers. They are small, sweet, and firm enough to hold their shape well on the skewer without becoming too mushy.
Pro Tips
- Fold or gently cup the basil leaves as you thread them onto the skewer — this prevents tearing and releases more of their aromatic oils.
- Use small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine); their bite-size shape is made for skewers and their creaminess balances the tomatoes.
- For a richer, sweeter finish, drizzle with a thick balsamic glaze instead of plain vinegar — you can buy it or simmer balsamic vinegar until reduced by half.
- Marinate the mozzarella balls in olive oil and a pinch of salt for 15-20 minutes before assembling for an extra layer of flavor.
- Assemble up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate covered, but add the vinaigrette just before serving so the basil stays fresh and vibrant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Caprese skewers ahead of time?
Yes — assemble up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerate covered. Drizzle the vinaigrette just before serving to keep the basil fresh.
What is the best mozzarella for Caprese skewers?
Small fresh mozzarella balls, labeled bocconcini or ciliegine — the perfect skewer size with a creamy texture that pairs with tomato and basil.
What tomatoes work best for this recipe?
Grape or cherry tomatoes — they're small, sweet, and firm enough to hold their shape on the skewer without turning mushy.
How can I add more flavor to these skewers?
Marinate the mozzarella in olive oil and salt for 15-20 minutes before threading, or use a thick balsamic glaze instead of vinegar for a richer drizzle.
Recipe card below.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- The Easiest, Juiciest Instant Pot Pot Roast
- Instant Pot Sausage and Egg Casserole
- 4-Ingredient Keto Coconut Fat Bombs
Caprese Skewers
Ingredients
Method
- Directions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
- Assemble the skewers. On each of 12 small skewers, thread one grape tomato, followed by a folded basil leaf, one mozzarella ball, another folded basil leaf, and a final grape tomato.
- Arrange the completed skewers on a serving platter and drizzle generously with the balsamic vinaigrette.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors.
- Marinate the mozzarella balls in the olive oil and a pinch of salt for 15-20 minutes before assembling for an extra layer of flavor.
