Easy Caprese Skewer Platter with Homemade Basil Oil
A quick and impressive appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves on skewers, drizzled with a fragrant homemade basil oil. Perfect for parties and gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 skewers
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- Cherry tomatoes – firm, ripe
- Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) – small, packed in water
- Fresh basil leaves – vibrant green
- Extra virgin olive oil – 1/2 cup (120 ml) for basil oil
- Fresh basil leaves – 1 cup (about 25 g) for basil oil
- Garlic cloves – 1 small clove, peeled
- Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon (15 ml)
- Salt – to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper – to taste
- Balsamic glaze (optional) – for drizzling
- Wooden or bamboo skewers – about 6 inches long
Instructions
- Prepare the basil oil: In a small blender or food processor, combine 1 cup fresh basil leaves, 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, 1 small garlic clove (peeled), 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and vibrant green, about 30 seconds. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside.
- Prep the ingredients: Rinse the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves under cold water and pat dry carefully. Drain the mozzarella balls and gently pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Assemble the skewers: Take a wooden skewer and thread one cherry tomato, followed by one mozzarella ball, then a folded basil leaf. Repeat the pattern 2-3 times per skewer depending on length. Arrange the finished skewers on your serving platter.
- Drizzle and season: Spoon the homemade basil oil generously over the platter, making sure each skewer gets a little drizzle. If using balsamic glaze, drizzle lightly on top for a touch of sweetness and contrast.
- Final touch: Sprinkle freshly cracked black pepper and a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt over everything.
- Serve immediately: These skewers are best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours before serving. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Notes
Soak wooden skewers in water for 10 minutes before threading if you plan to grill to prevent burning. Assemble basil oil shortly before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant. Pat mozzarella dry to avoid soggy skewers. Can be refrigerated up to 2 hours before serving; bring to room temperature for best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 3.5
- Carbohydrates: 3
- Fiber: 0.75
- Protein: 5.5
Keywords: Caprese skewers, party appetizer, basil oil, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, easy appetizer, vegetarian, gluten-free