Fresh Caprese Skewers Recipe Easy Homemade Appetizer with Balsamic Glaze
A quick and easy appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves threaded onto skewers and drizzled with a sweet balsamic glaze. Perfect for any occasion, these skewers balance fresh, bright flavors with a touch of sweet tang.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (if making balsamic reduction)
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 20 skewers (servings) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 20 cherry tomatoes, ripe and firm
- 20 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
- 20 fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
- 1/4 cup sweet balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade balsamic reduction)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
- Pinch of sea salt, for finishing
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- 20 wooden or bamboo skewers, about 6 inches long
- Optional: 1 small clove garlic, minced (mixed with olive oil for savory hint)
Instructions
- Rinse the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves gently under cold water. Pat dry completely to avoid soggy skewers. Drain the mozzarella balls well, placing them on paper towels if packed in liquid.
- Optional: To make balsamic reduction, combine 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar and 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer until thickened to a syrupy consistency, about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally and let cool.
- Assemble the skewers by threading one cherry tomato first, then folding one basil leaf in half and adding it, followed by one mozzarella ball. Repeat for each skewer.
- Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with sweet balsamic glaze. Lightly sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Optionally, add a tiny drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a silky finish.
- Let the skewers sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to marry and the glaze to settle.
Notes
Soak wooden skewers in water for 10 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. If balsamic glaze is too thick, thin with a splash of water or olive oil; if too thin, simmer longer. Assemble skewers just before serving or keep glaze separate to avoid sogginess. Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) are preferred for best texture. Basil leaves must be dry to prevent sogginess. Optional additions include garlic-infused olive oil, toasted pine nuts, or prosciutto slices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 65
- Sugar: 1.5
- Sodium: 90
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 3.5
Keywords: Caprese skewers, appetizer, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, balsamic glaze, easy recipe, party food, vegetarian, gluten-free