Print

Easy Make-Ahead Caprese Skewers Recipe with Sweet Balsamic Reduction

make-ahead caprese skewers - featured image
Print Recipe

A simple and fresh appetizer featuring mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil on skewers, drizzled with a sweet balsamic reduction. Perfect for make-ahead entertaining without soggy ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
  • 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes (about 300 grams)
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves
  • 1 cup (240 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional)
  • Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Wooden or bamboo skewers, about 4 inches long

Instructions

  1. Pour 1 cup (240 ml) of balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon (15 g) of honey or brown sugar if desired.
  2. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but not hard when cooled.
  3. Rinse and dry the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves thoroughly to prevent sogginess.
  4. Drain and pat dry the mozzarella balls if packed in water.
  5. Thread one mozzarella ball, one basil leaf (folded if large), and one cherry tomato onto each skewer. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
  6. Arrange skewers on a serving platter or airtight container. Lightly drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with salt and cracked black pepper.
  7. Cover and refrigerate if making ahead (up to 24 hours).
  8. Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic reduction over the skewers or serve it on the side for dipping.

Notes

Do not add salt until just before serving to avoid soggy tomatoes. Watch the balsamic reduction closely to prevent burning. Thread basil leaves between mozzarella and tomato to protect them from vinegar contact. Store skewers refrigerated up to 24 hours and add balsamic reduction just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, balsamic reduction, make-ahead appetizer, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, easy party food, Italian appetizer

Find it online: https://wigglebite.com/easy-make-ahead-caprese-skewers-recipe-with-sweet-balsamic-reduction/