Fresh Caprese Skewers with Easy Balsamic Glaze
A quick and easy appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze. Perfect for any occasion, these skewers are fresh, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 20 skewers 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 20 ripe cherry tomatoes
- 20 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
- 20 fresh basil leaves, washed and dried
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (optional)
- Pinch of flaky sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 20 wooden skewers or toothpicks, soaked in water for 10 minutes
Instructions
- Prepare the balsamic glaze: Pour 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar into a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally and let it reduce until thickened and syrupy, about 10-15 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the ingredients: Rinse and dry the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves carefully. Drain the mozzarella balls well to avoid sogginess on the skewers.
- Assemble the skewers: Thread one cherry tomato first, then a fresh basil leaf (folded if large), followed by a mozzarella ball onto each wooden skewer or toothpick. Repeat until all 20 skewers are assembled.
- Season the skewers: Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Optionally, drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over them. Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze: Using a spoon or squeeze bottle, drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze evenly over the skewers.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy fresh to preserve the texture of the basil and mozzarella. If needed, cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving. Bring back to room temperature for best flavor.
Notes
Keep the heat moderate when reducing balsamic vinegar to prevent burning. Pat mozzarella dry to avoid sogginess. Add balsamic glaze just before serving to keep basil fresh. Skewers can be lightly grilled for 1-2 minutes per side for a smoky flavor. For dairy-free, substitute mozzarella with marinated tofu or vegan cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 90
- Fat: 3.5
- Saturated Fat: 1.5
- Carbohydrates: 2.5
- Fiber: 0.3
- Protein: 3.5
Keywords: Caprese skewers, balsamic glaze, appetizer, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, easy recipe, party food, gluten-free