Fresh Caprese Skewers Recipe with Easy Balsamic Glaze for Perfect Appetizers
Fresh Caprese skewers with a syrupy balsamic glaze, combining creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil for a quick and impressive appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 20 skewers 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 20 cherry or grape tomatoes, washed and dried
- 20 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
- 20 fresh basil leaves, gently rinsed and patted dry
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- Pinch of sea salt, to taste
- Pinch of freshly ground black pepper, for seasoning
- About 10 wooden or bamboo skewers (6-inch length)
Instructions
- Prepare the balsamic glaze: Pour ½ cup (120 ml) of balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon of honey or brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes until it reduces by half and becomes syrupy. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. If it thickens too much when cooled, stir in a teaspoon of warm water.
- Assemble the skewers: Take one skewer and thread on one cherry tomato, followed by a fresh basil leaf (folded if large), then a mozzarella ball. Repeat until all ingredients are used, making about 20 skewers. Alternate the order for visual interest if desired.
- Drizzle olive oil and season: Place the skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil evenly over them. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Finish with balsamic glaze: Using a spoon or small squeeze bottle, drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze over the skewers. The glaze should cling but not pool heavily.
- Serve immediately or chill: Enjoy fresh or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving. Remove from fridge 10 minutes prior to serving to bring flavors to room temperature.
Notes
Use ripe but firm cherry tomatoes to avoid mushy skewers. Pat mozzarella dry if wet to prevent sogginess. For a vegan version, substitute mozzarella with marinated tofu cubes and honey with maple syrup. When reducing balsamic vinegar, simmer gently to avoid burning. Assemble skewers without oil or glaze if prepping ahead; dress just before serving. Soak wooden skewers if grilling. Avoid overdressing to prevent sogginess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 65
- Sugar: 2.5
- Sodium: 90
- Fat: 4.5
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 3.5
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 3.5
Keywords: Caprese skewers, balsamic glaze, appetizer, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, easy recipe, party food, vegetarian, gluten-free