Print

Fresh Caprese Skewers Recipe Easy Homemade Appetizer with Balsamic Reduction

fresh Caprese skewers - featured image

These fresh Caprese skewers are a simple, fresh, and flavorful appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella balls drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic reduction.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 cherry tomatoes, washed and dried
  • 20 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained
  • 20 fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional)
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
  • 20 wooden skewers or toothpicks

Instructions

  1. Make the balsamic reduction: Pour 1 cup (240 ml) of balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon (15 g) of honey or brown sugar if desired. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until reduced by half and syrupy. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
  2. Prepare the mozzarella and basil: Drain mozzarella balls and place in a mixing bowl. Add fresh basil leaves and drizzle with 2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil. Toss gently to coat and season with a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  3. Assemble the skewers: Thread a cherry tomato onto a wooden skewer or toothpick, followed by a basil leaf (fold if large), then a mozzarella ball. Repeat if desired. Arrange skewers on a serving platter.
  4. Drizzle and serve: Just before serving, drizzle the cooled balsamic reduction generously over the skewers. Optionally, add an extra splash of olive oil.

Notes

Watch the balsamic reduction carefully to avoid burning. Assemble skewers close to serving time to keep them fresh. Mozzarella and basil can be prepped up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerated. Balsamic reduction can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, balsamic reduction, appetizer, easy recipe, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, party food