Fresh Caprese Skewers Recipe Easy Summer Appetizer with Balsamic Glaze
Fresh Caprese Skewers combine juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, drizzled with a tangy homemade balsamic glaze. This quick and easy appetizer is perfect for summer gatherings or light snacking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 skewers 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pint (about 250g) cherry tomatoes, washed and dried
- 8 ounces (225g) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
- 20 to 25 large fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
- ½ cup (120ml) balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- Extra virgin olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Wooden or bamboo skewers, about 6 inches (15cm) long, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions
- Prepare the balsamic glaze: Pour ½ cup (120ml) balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until reduced by half and syrupy, about 10-15 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- Drain the mozzarella balls using a fine mesh strainer or paper towel-lined bowl to remove excess moisture.
- Wash and dry cherry tomatoes and basil leaves thoroughly to avoid diluting flavors.
- Assemble the skewers by threading one cherry tomato, one basil leaf (folded if large), and one mozzarella ball onto each skewer. Repeat until all ingredients are used, with 3-4 pieces per skewer.
- Arrange skewers on a serving platter and lightly sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze evenly over the skewers. Optionally, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil for added richness.
- Serve immediately. Skewers can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours before serving; bring to room temperature for best flavor.
Notes
Make the balsamic glaze carefully over low heat to avoid burning. Assemble skewers just before serving or store without glaze and add it last minute to keep freshness. Soak skewers if grilling to prevent burning. Handle basil gently to avoid wilting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 4
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 5
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 4
Keywords: Caprese skewers, summer appetizer, balsamic glaze, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, easy appetizer, vegetarian, gluten-free