Summer gatherings are some of my favorite occasions to whip up a batch of these vibrant Caprese Salad Skewers. There’s something about the combination of fresh, juicy cherry tomatoes, aromatic basil, and creamy mini mozzarella balls that just feels like a hug in food form. I remember the first time I brought these to a barbecue at our place—a simple idea transformed into a showstopper when the platter was wiped clean in no time. There’s also the added bonus of watching friends and family enjoy each bite, sharing in the collective joy that only good food can bring.
We’re all busy these days, so a recipe that’s not only easy but also quick to prepare is exactly what the doctor ordered. With no cooking required—yep, not even a saucepan—putting these skewers together takes just ten minutes. It’s basically an assembly job, perfect for involving the kids or anyone eager to lend a hand. Every summer party or spontaneous get-together I’ve been to is a little brighter with these skewers around.
The secret ingredient, if you will, is the marinated mozzarella. Before skewering, let those little cheese balls sit in a deliciously aromatic dressing of extra virgin olive oil, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This simple step infuses them with flavor, making every bite more interesting. And when you drizzle them with balsamic glaze before serving, well, that’s just some chef’s kiss finishing touch.
What I love most is the flexibility with this recipe. Got too many cherry tomatoes from the garden or a fresh stash from the farmers’ market? Perfect—go wild. The next time you find yourself needing something quick, easy, and sure to please a crowd, these skewers are your best bet. So, dust off those mini skewers and get threading; your taste buds—and friends—will definitely thank you!
How to Make Caprese Salad Skewers
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Ingredients:
- 24 Cherry Tomatoes
- 24 Fresh Basil Leaves
- 24 Mini Mozzarella Cheese Balls
- 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- Salt (to taste)
- Freshly Ground Pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons Balsamic Glaze
Directions:
- Mix the extra virgin olive oil with Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground pepper in a bowl.
- Add the mini mozzarella balls to the seasoned oil, coating thoroughly. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes, ideally overnight in the fridge.
- Take a mini skewer and gently slide on a cherry tomato, a folded basil leaf, and a marinated mozzarella ball in sequence.
- Arrange the assembled skewers on a platter.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the skewers, adding more seasoned olive oil over the tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor, if desired.
No Mozzarella? Try These Alternatives
If you’re out of mozzarella or looking for a dairy-free version, try using marinated tofu for a protein boost or cubed avocado for a creamy texture. Halloumi could be a less traditional yet delicious swap that adds a firm bite. Vegan cheese options are also widely available and can fit well in this recipe.
Best Ways to Store Caprese Salad Skewers Leftover
To store leftover skewers, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to two days. For better flavor retention, keep the balsamic glaze separate and drizzle it fresh when ready to serve. Unfortunately, these aren’t suitable for freezing, as the texture of fresh ingredients like tomatoes and basil does not hold up well.
Perfect Pairings for Caprese Salad Skewers
Serve these skewers alongside grilled meats or as part of an antipasto platter for that extra touch. They pair exceptionally well with a cold glass of white wine or a sparkling Italian soda. You could also present them as a starter, followed by a pasta dish for a themed Italian night.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Caprese Salad Skewers
For an extra punch of flavor, let the mozzarella marinate overnight. Always use fresh basil for the best taste, and feel free to adjust the ratio of tomatoes to cheese to suit your preferences. If hosting a party, get ahead by marinating the cheese and preparing the skewers beforehand, then assemble them just before serving.
Seasonal Twists for Caprese Salad Skewers
In the spring, consider adding blanched asparagus tips for a fresh touch. During fall, incorporate roasted beets for a sweet and earthy profile. Swap cherry tomatoes with heirloom tomatoes during summer peak. Adding seasonal fruits like figs or peaches can also provide a surprising yet delightful twist to these skewers.
FAQs:
What can I use instead of basil?
If you’re out of fresh basil, arugula or baby spinach can offer a similar fresh bite. Both are mild enough so as not to overpower the other flavors, bringing a different, unexpected twist to your skewers.
Can I make Caprese Salad Skewers in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients and allow the mozzarella to marinate a day before serving. For the freshest taste and texture, however, it’s best to assemble the skewers on the day you plan to serve them.
Are Caprese Salad Skewers suitable for a vegan diet?
To adjust them for a vegan diet, consider replacing mozzarella with a vegan cheese alternative or using marinated firm tofu. Both options maintain the finger-food-friendly nature of skewers and can absorb the seasoning well.
Can I use different types of tomatoes?
Definitely! While cherry tomatoes are convenient and bite-size, grape tomatoes or even small heirloom varieties add color and variety. Just ensure they’re ripe but firm for the best texture.
How do I prevent the skewers from becoming soggy?
To prevent sogginess, ensure that any extra oil and moisture are patted off from the ingredients before assembly. The acidity from the tomatoes can seep into the other ingredients over time, so they’re best when freshly prepared for serving.
What’s the best balsamic glaze to use?
You can find balsamic glazes at most supermarkets, or easily make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar with a little sugar over low heat until syrupy. Homemade glaze gives you the freedom to control the sweetness and thickness to match your preference.
Caprese Salad Skewers
Equipment
- skewers
Ingredients
- 24 pieces Cherry Tomatoes
- 24 leaves Fresh Basil Leaves
- 24 pieces Mini Mozzarella Cheese Balls
- 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Freshly Ground Pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons Balsamic Glaze
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil with Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt, and freshly cracked pepper.
- Gently toss the mini mozzarella balls in the seasoned oil until they are well-coated. For the best taste, let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight in the refrigerator.
- To put it all together, take a mini skewer and thread on a cherry tomato, a folded basil leaf, and a marinated mozzarella ball. Place the finished skewers on a serving platter.
- Finally, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the skewers, and if you'd like, add a bit of the seasoned olive oil over the tomatoes for extra flavor before serving.
