Fresh Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
A quick and easy vibrant snack featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves threaded on skewers, finished with a homemade thick balsamic glaze. Perfect for summer parties, light appetizers, or casual snacking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings (about 3 skewers per serving) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- About 20 cherry tomatoes, firm and ripe
- About 20 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained
- 20 fresh basil leaves, medium-sized, washed and dried
- Wooden or bamboo skewers (6-inch length)
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
- Optional garnishes: fresh cracked black pepper, sea salt flakes, extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Balsamic Glaze: Pour 1 cup balsamic vinegar into a medium saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar and a pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered. Stir occasionally and let it reduce until thick and syrupy, about 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves; pat dry thoroughly. Drain the fresh mozzarella balls on paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread one cherry tomato, followed by one basil leaf (folded if large), then a mozzarella ball onto a wooden skewer. Repeat this pattern 3-4 times per skewer depending on length. Arrange the finished skewers on a serving platter.
- Drizzle and Garnish: Drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze generously over the skewers. Add a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and sea salt flakes to taste. Optionally, finish with a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
- Serve Immediately or Chill: Serve fresh for best texture. If preparing ahead, cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours and drizzle glaze just before serving.
Notes
Dry mozzarella balls thoroughly to prevent sogginess. Simmer balsamic glaze slowly to avoid burning. Assemble skewers just before serving or store glaze and skewers separately to maintain texture. Glaze can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for up to one week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 3 skewers per
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 8
Keywords: Caprese skewers, balsamic glaze, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, easy appetizer, summer snack, party food, vegetarian, gluten-free