Caprese Skewers are one of my favorite appetizers to make when I want something fresh, colorful, and full of flavor. They take all the classic ingredients of a Caprese salad — juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil — and turn them into a beautiful, bite-sized presentation. I love how simple they are to put together, yet they always look impressive on the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s effortless, light, and incredibly delicious. The combination of sweet cherry tomatoes, soft mozzarella, and aromatic basil drizzled with balsamic glaze is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s a no-cook recipe, which means I can make it in minutes, and it’s perfect for any occasion — from parties to picnics. Plus, it’s easy to scale up or down depending on how many guests I have.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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cherry or grape tomatoes
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mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
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fresh basil leaves
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balsamic glaze (or homemade balsamic reduction)
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olive oil (optional)
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salt and black pepper
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wooden or bamboo skewers (6-inch or appetizer-sized work best)
Directions
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I start by rinsing the tomatoes and basil leaves, then patting them dry.
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I thread one tomato onto the skewer, followed by a basil leaf (folded if large) and a mozzarella ball. I repeat this pattern until the skewer is full, usually ending with a tomato for a nice pop of color.
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I arrange the skewers neatly on a serving platter.
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I drizzle them lightly with olive oil and balsamic glaze, then sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper on top.
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I serve them right away or refrigerate them for up to an hour before serving if I’m prepping ahead.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 12 skewers, depending on the size of the ingredients and skewers used. It usually takes me around 10–15 minutes to assemble everything, making it one of the quickest appetizers I can prepare.
Variations
Sometimes I like to get creative with my Caprese Skewers. I’ve added swapped mozzarella for marinated cheese cubes for extra flavor. When I want something different, I use colorful heirloom tomatoes or add a drizzle of pesto instead of balsamic glaze. For a fun twist, I’ve even made them on toothpicks for mini bite-sized versions — perfect for parties.
Storage/Reheating
These skewers are best enjoyed fresh, but I can make them a few hours ahead of time. I store them in an airtight container in the fridge, uncovered for the first 15 minutes to avoid condensation. I always wait to drizzle the balsamic glaze until just before serving so they stay vibrant and fresh-looking. Since they’re cold appetizers, there’s no reheating needed — just assemble and enjoy.
FAQs
Can I make Caprese Skewers ahead of time?
Yes, I can prepare them a few hours in advance. I just keep them covered in the fridge and add the glaze right before serving for the best presentation.
What kind of mozzarella should I use?
I prefer mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine). If I can only find larger balls, I cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is best for authentic Caprese flavor. Dried basil won’t give the same aroma or texture, so I always stick with fresh leaves.
How do I make balsamic glaze at home?
I simmer balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reduces by half and becomes thick and syrupy. It’s easy and makes the skewers taste amazing.
Can I serve these as a side dish instead of an appetizer?
Absolutely! I often serve them alongside grilled meats, pasta, or as part of a larger antipasto platter. They add color and freshness to any meal.
Conclusion
Caprese Skewers are one of those simple yet elegant recipes I never get tired of making. They’re fresh, flavorful, and always a hit with everyone. I love that they require no cooking, look beautiful on any table, and deliver that perfect bite of summer flavor — no matter the season. Whether I’m hosting a party or just want a light snack, these skewers always impress with their simplicity and taste.
Print
Caprese Skewers
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 skewers
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Caprese Skewers are a fresh and colorful appetizer made with cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, and basil leaves, all drizzled with balsamic glaze. This no-cook, bite-sized version of the classic Caprese salad is perfect for parties, picnics, or quick snacks.
Ingredients
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
- 8 oz mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2–3 tbsp balsamic glaze (or homemade balsamic reduction)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 wooden or bamboo skewers (6-inch or appetizer-sized)
Instructions
- Rinse the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves, then pat them dry.
- On each skewer, thread one tomato, one folded basil leaf, and one mozzarella ball. Repeat if space allows, ending with a tomato for presentation.
- Arrange the assembled skewers on a serving platter.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving. Add glaze just before serving if making ahead.
Notes
- Use heirloom cherry tomatoes for more color and flavor.
- Swap in marinated mozzarella cubes for extra flavor.
- Add a drizzle of pesto instead of balsamic glaze for variation.
- Mini toothpick versions are great for large parties or kids.
- Best served fresh but can be prepped ahead and glazed last minute.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
