Fresh Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Drizzle
A quick and easy appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves on skewers, drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic reduction.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 10 skewers (about 20 servings as appetizer bites) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 20 cherry tomatoes, fresh and firm
- 20 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), well-drained
- 20 fresh basil leaves, whole and washed
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar (preferably aged)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Extra virgin olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the balsamic reduction: In a small saucepan, combine ½ cup (120 ml) balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon (12 g) sugar. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally and let it reduce until thickened to a syrupy consistency, about 10–12 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Prep the ingredients: Rinse and dry the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves thoroughly. Drain the mozzarella balls well. Season the mozzarella and tomatoes lightly with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
- Assemble the skewers: Thread one cherry tomato onto a skewer, followed by a fresh basil leaf (folded if large), then a mozzarella ball. Repeat the pattern until the skewer is full, usually three sets per skewer. Optionally finish with an extra basil leaf.
- Arrange on a platter: Lay the skewers neatly on a serving plate or tray. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate up to 2 hours if making ahead.
- Drizzle and serve: Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic reduction over the skewers. Optionally add a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Wipe any sticky drips from the platter edges.
Notes
Soak wooden skewers in water for 15 minutes before use to prevent burning. Pat ingredients dry to avoid soggy skewers. Add balsamic drizzle just before serving to keep basil fresh. Warm balsamic reduction gently if it thickens too much. Can substitute vegan mozzarella or tofu for dairy-free option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (3 sets of
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 4
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 5
Keywords: Caprese skewers, balsamic drizzle, easy appetizer, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, quick snack, party food