caprese skewers
Caprese skewers: a simple, colorful, and healthy appetizer using tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Ideal for light meals!
Ingredients
Method
- Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves.
- Thread a cherry tomato, a basil leaf, and a mini mozzarella ball onto each skewer. Repeat until all skewers are assembled.
- Arrange the prepared skewers on a serving platter.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and, if desired, with balsamic glaze.
- Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately as a fresh, light appetizer.
Notes
Caprese skewers are a celebration of simplicity and freshness, making them a crowd favorite at gatherings, picnics, or even as a quick snack. Their origins in Italian cuisine and visual appeal make them a must-have for those who cherish light, healthy bites that don’t sacrifice flavor.
Practical Tips: Ingredient Choices & Assembly
- Choose cherry tomatoes that are firm and sweet for best results—heirloom varieties add a colorful touch.
- Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) make all the difference in texture and taste; avoid pre-shredded or aged mozzarella.
- If you can’t find mini mozzarella, cut larger balls into bite-size pieces or use marinated feta for a tangy twist.
- To keep basil leaves vibrant, lightly mist or wrap them in a damp paper towel until serving time.
Preparation & Serving Suggestions
- Assemble the skewers right before serving to maintain freshness and prevent basil from wilting.
- Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze just before serving, so the skewers don’t become soggy.
- For an extra punch of flavor, sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper or a touch of flaky sea salt.
- Turn Caprese skewers into a meal by serving them over a bed of mixed greens or alongside a platter of cured meats and crusty bread.
Creative Variations
- Swap basil for baby arugula or mint for a fresh twist.
- Add thin slices of prosciutto between layers for a savory touch.
- For party presentations, alternate with grilled vegetables like zucchini or roasted red peppers for color and variety.
