Save to Pinterest Mini Caprese Skewers are my secret shortcut for an effortless appetizer that always impresses guests. These cheerful bites combine juicy tomatoes creamy mozzarella and fresh basil making them perfect for picnics or last minute gatherings. A drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze brings it all together in just minutes.
I first made these skewers when I needed something bright and fresh for a backyard brunch. Now I am always asked to bring them to family parties because everyone loves how fun and colorful they are.
Ingredients
- Cherry tomatoes: choose firm and glossy ones for maximum sweetness and color
- Small mozzarella balls: also called bocconcini or ciliegine must be packed in water for best texture
- Fresh basil leaves: look for leaves that are bright green and unbruised for the freshest taste
- Balsamic glaze: provides sweetness and a zesty finish try to use a good quality aged balsamic for thicker consistency
Instructions
- Thread the Tomatoes:
- Slide a cherry tomato onto the tip of each skewer or toothpick. This helps anchor everything and gives a pop of color at the base.
- Add the Mozzarella Ball:
- Gently slide a mozzarella ball on top of the tomato. If the mozzarella is too wet pat it dry with paper towels to help the glaze stick later.
- Layer the Basil:
- Fold a medium basil leaf in half if large and skewer it above the cheese. The heat from your hands can help release the basil aroma.
- Finish with a Tomato Top optional:
- For extra color or height you can add another tomato on top. This works especially well if your skewers are long.
- Arrange and Drizzle:
- Stand each skewer upright on a platter. Just before serving drizzle balsamic glaze over everything so the flavors meld and the basil stays fresh.
- Presentation:
- Wipe any drips from the platter for a beautiful presentation and serve right away.
Save to Pinterest I have a soft spot for fresh basil because it was the first herb I ever grew. My kids love helping assemble these and sneak extra mozzarella when they think I am not looking.
Storage Tips
Store assembled skewers in a single layer covered with plastic wrap in the fridge for up to two days. Wait until right before serving to add the balsamic glaze or the basil may darken and the cheese could get soggy. If you need to prep further ahead keep ingredients separate and assemble on the day of your event.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap mozzarella balls for feta cubes or vegan cheese if needed. If you are out of balsamic glaze you can reduce regular balsamic vinegar with a spoonful of honey until syrupy. Grape tomatoes work instead of cherry just halve them if large.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these skewers with sparkling water or a crisp white wine. Set alongside a platter of olives and cured meats for an instant Italian inspired party spread. They also fit beautifully into lunchboxes.
Cultural Note
The Caprese combination originates from the island of Capri in Italy. Italians love highlighting the red white and green colors of their flag in food. It has become a symbol of summer hospitality at Italian tables.
Seasonal Adaptations
Try using heirloom tomatoes in a rainbow of colors for a beautiful twist Add a tiny square of prosciutto between basil and cheese for salty flavor Garnish with a crack of black pepper or a flake of sea salt for a sophisticated finish
Success Stories
One of my friends made hundreds for her baby shower and they disappeared before anything else. At a family picnic last summer kids and adults both raced to grab these from the tray. They never fail to spark conversation because people cannot believe something so simple tastes so special.
Freezer Meal Conversion
These skewers are best made fresh since freezing will affect the texture of mozzarella and basil. If you absolutely must prepare ahead you can freeze only the mozzarella balls drained and dried then thaw and assemble with new produce.
Save to Pinterest With these fresh and easy skewers you can bring a taste of Italian summer to any gathering. Simple thoughtful details turn this classic into an appetizer your guests will remember.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use large tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Cherry tomatoes provide ideal size and sweetness. Sliced larger tomatoes aren't recommended for skewering.
- → What type of mozzarella works best?
Mozzarella balls, also called bocconcini or ciliegine, are perfect for bite-size skewers and fresh flavor.
- → Is store-bought basil suitable?
Fresh basil leaves are best. Store-bought fresh basil works well if washed and dried before use.
- → How should balsamic glaze be applied?
Drizzle glaze over assembled skewers just before serving for a glossy finish and tangy taste.
- → Can these skewers be made ahead?
You can assemble them a few hours before serving. Add balsamic glaze just before presenting for freshness.