Fresh Caprese Skewers with Sweet Balsamic Glaze
A simple and elegant appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and fresh basil leaves drizzled with a sweet homemade balsamic glaze. Perfect for any occasion and ready in under 20 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 20 skewers (about 6 servings) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 20 ripe cherry tomatoes
- 20 small mozzarella pearls (bocconcini), drained
- 20 fresh basil leaves, washed and dried
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- About 20 wooden skewers or toothpicks (6-inch)
Instructions
- Prepare the balsamic glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup balsamic vinegar and 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar. Stir gently until the sweetener dissolves. Let it simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reduces by about half and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and let cool. (Skip if using store-bought glaze.)
- Rinse and dry the fresh basil leaves and cherry tomatoes thoroughly to avoid sogginess and help the glaze stick better.
- Drain mozzarella pearls and pat lightly with paper towels if needed to remove extra moisture.
- Gently toss tomatoes and mozzarella in a mixing bowl with 2 tablespoons olive oil, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix carefully to avoid bruising tomatoes or breaking cheese.
- Assemble the skewers by threading a cherry tomato, followed by a basil leaf (folded if large), then a mozzarella pearl, and finishing with another cherry tomato. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
- Arrange the skewers on a serving platter and drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze evenly over the top. Optionally, brush lightly with extra olive oil for shine.
- Serve immediately or cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld slightly. Avoid making too far ahead to keep basil fresh and tomatoes firm.
Notes
If glaze thickens too much after cooling, warm briefly on low heat and stir in a splash of water to loosen. Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Assemble skewers close to serving time to keep basil fresh and tomatoes firm. For dairy-free or vegan options, substitute mozzarella with marinated tofu or vegan cheese balls and use maple syrup instead of honey in the glaze.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 3 skewers
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Protein: 7
Keywords: Caprese skewers, balsamic glaze, appetizer, easy recipe, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, party food, vegetarian, gluten-free