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Easy Fresh Caprese Skewers Recipe for Perfect Summer Appetizers with Balsamic Glaze

easy fresh caprese skewers - featured image

A quick and fresh appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze. Perfect for summer gatherings and easy to prepare in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 24 cherry tomatoes, washed and dried
  • 24 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
  • 24 fresh basil leaves, washed and dried
  • ½ cup (120 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) honey or brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • About 24 wooden or bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

  1. Pour ½ cup balsamic vinegar and 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar into a medium saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until thickened to a syrupy consistency (about 10-15 minutes).
  2. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the glaze cool while assembling the skewers.
  3. Drain mozzarella balls well. Wash and dry cherry tomatoes and basil leaves thoroughly.
  4. Thread one cherry tomato, one basil leaf (folded if large), and one mozzarella ball onto each soaked skewer. Repeat if skewers are longer or keep one set per skewer.
  5. Arrange skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle balsamic glaze generously over the top, sprinkle with flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, then drizzle 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil over everything.
  6. Serve immediately. Refrigerate uncovered for up to 2 hours if needed and bring to room temperature before serving.

Notes

Use small mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine) for best texture. Avoid pre-shredded mozzarella. The balsamic glaze should be syrupy but not too thick; add a splash of water if needed. Assemble skewers shortly before serving to keep basil fresh and prevent sogginess. Optionally, briefly broil skewers for 1-2 minutes to warm mozzarella. For dairy-free, use vegan mozzarella and coconut sugar. Grilling skewers for 2-3 minutes per side adds smoky flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, balsamic glaze, summer appetizer, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, easy recipe, party food, vegetarian, gluten-free