Fresh Easy Caprese Skewers Recipe with Balsamic Glaze
A quick and easy appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, bocconcini, and fresh basil on skewers, drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for parties and casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 20 skewers 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 20 cherry tomatoes, washed and dried
- 20 bocconcini (small mozzarella balls), drained
- 20 fresh basil leaves, gently washed and patted dry
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 20 wooden skewers or toothpicks
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients (5 minutes): Rinse cherry tomatoes and basil leaves, and pat dry. Drain the bocconcini and set aside.
- Make the Balsamic Glaze (optional, 10-12 minutes): Pour 1/2 cup (120 ml) balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally and let it reduce until it thickens to a syrupy consistency, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool. (If using store-bought glaze, skip this step.)
- Assemble the Skewers (10 minutes): On each skewer or toothpick, thread a cherry tomato, a folded basil leaf, and a bocconcini ball. Repeat until all skewers are assembled.
- Season and Dress (2 minutes): Place skewers on a serving tray. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and the balsamic glaze. Sprinkle lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Final Touches (1 minute): Let the skewers sit for 5 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to marry before serving.
Notes
Use firm, ripe cherry tomatoes to prevent watery skewers. Assemble skewers just before serving and drizzle oil and glaze last to keep fresh. Folding basil leaves before threading prevents tearing. For a dairy-free option, substitute bocconcini with marinated tofu or avocado. Skewers can be lightly grilled for 2-3 minutes per side for a smoky flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 75
- Sugar: 1.5
- Sodium: 100
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 5
Keywords: Caprese skewers, appetizer, balsamic glaze, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, easy recipe, party food, summer appetizer