Caprese Skewers Recipe: Easy Fresh Summer Appetizer with Balsamic Glaze
These Caprese Skewers are a quick, fresh, and crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, fragrant basil, and a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or healthy snacking, they come together in minutes and deliver classic Italian flavors in every bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 20-24 skewers 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes, fresh and ripe
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1 bunch fresh basil leaves, washed and dried
- 1–2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (optional)
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 2–3 tablespoons store-bought balsamic glaze OR homemade balsamic reduction
- Small wooden skewers, cocktail picks, or toothpicks (about 20-24)
Instructions
- Rinse cherry tomatoes and let them dry completely.
- Pat mozzarella balls with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Wash and gently dry basil leaves. Tear large leaves in half if needed.
- Take a skewer or toothpick and thread one cherry tomato onto the end.
- Follow with a folded basil leaf.
- Add one mozzarella ball (or cube, if using).
- Repeat the process for all skewers and arrange on a serving platter.
- Drizzle lightly with extra virgin olive oil.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
- Right before serving, zigzag balsamic glaze over the skewers using a spoon or squeeze bottle.
- Serve immediately, or cover and chill (add glaze just before serving).
Notes
Use room temperature ingredients for best flavor. Pat mozzarella and basil dry to prevent soggy skewers. Add balsamic glaze just before serving to keep basil fresh. For dairy-free, substitute vegan mozzarella or marinated tofu. Skewers can be made ahead and chilled, but season and glaze right before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 65
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 80
- Fat: 4
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 4
Keywords: caprese skewers, summer appetizer, balsamic glaze, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, gluten-free, vegetarian, party food, easy recipe