Elegant Tomato Mozzarella Skewers

This elegant Caprese skewer appetizer transforms the classic Italian salad into perfect bite-sized treats for any gathering. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil creates a sophisticated yet simple hors d'oeuvre that always disappears quickly from the serving platter.

I started making these for summer garden parties but now they're requested at every family function year round. My cousin even asked me to make 200 of these for her wedding reception last year.

Ingredients

• Fresh mozzarella balls: These provide the creamy element. Look for ciliegine which come preportioned in perfect bite sizes or cut larger balls into chunks
• Cherry tomatoes: Choose ripe vibrant ones with tight skin. I prefer heirloom varieties for interesting colors
• Fresh basil leaves: The aromatic herb that defines Caprese. Use only bright green unblemished leaves
• Balsamic glaze: This sweet reduction adds incredible depth. Choose a thick one that clings to the skewers
• Extra virgin olive oil: A quality oil makes all the difference. Spring for the good stuff here
• Sea salt and fresh pepper: These enhance all the flavors. Freshly ground black pepper provides the best flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Ingredients:

Wash and thoroughly dry the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves. The drying step is crucial because water will dilute the flavors and prevent the oil and glaze from adhering properly. Room temperature mozzarella has the best flavor so remove it from refrigeration about 20 minutes before assembly.

Skewer Assembly:

Take each toothpick or small skewer and thread on the components in your preferred order. I like to start with a tomato followed by a folded basil leaf then mozzarella and finish with another tomato. This creates beautiful symmetry and stability on the serving platter. The basil folded in the middle prevents it from wilting too quickly.

Season and Finish:

Arrange all completed skewers on your serving platter then drizzle lightly with olive oil ensuring each piece gets a tiny amount. Follow with a delicate drizzle of balsamic glaze in a zigzag pattern. Sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground pepper from about 12 inches above the platter to ensure even distribution across all skewers.

Chill and Serve:

Refrigerate the platter for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the mozzarella to firm up slightly making the skewers easier to handle. Remove from refrigeration about 10 minutes before serving for the best flavor experience.

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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is watching guests eyes light up when they taste the combination of flavors. Last summer I brought these to a potluck and three different people asked for the recipe before the night was over. The secret is really in the quality of ingredients rather than complicated technique.

Make Ahead Tips

These Caprese skewers can be fully assembled up to 8 hours before your event. The trick is to assemble everything except the salt pepper and balsamic glaze. Cover the platter tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. About 30 minutes before serving add the final seasonings and drizzle. This prevents the tomatoes from releasing too much moisture and keeps the basil from turning dark around the edges.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh mozzarella is unavailable cube firm mozzarella into similar sized pieces as the tomatoes. For a dairy free version substitute avocado chunks which provide similar creaminess. When basil is out of season small lettuce leaves like baby romaine can work in a pinch though the flavor profile changes significantly. Aged balsamic vinegar can replace the glaze but reduce the amount as it has a stronger flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These Caprese skewers pair beautifully with Prosecco or a light Pinot Grigio wine. For a complete appetizer spread serve alongside bruschetta crostini antipasto platters and marinated olives. They also work wonderfully as a passed appetizer at cocktail parties or displayed on tiered serving stands for more visual impact at buffets. For outdoor events place the platter over a bowl of ice to keep everything chilled.

The History Behind Caprese

The original Caprese salad originated on the island of Capri off the coast of Italy. The combination of red tomatoes white mozzarella and green basil was designed to represent the colors of the Italian flag. This patriotic dish became popular in the 1950s when it was served to visiting dignitaries at exclusive island resorts. Our skewered version maintains this gorgeous color palette while transforming it into a convenient finger food perfect for modern entertaining.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ How far in advance can I make Caprese skewers?

You can prepare Caprese skewers up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble the skewers, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. For best results, add the balsamic glaze and olive oil drizzle just before serving to keep the basil looking fresh and prevent the skewers from becoming soggy.

→ What can I substitute for balsamic glaze?

If you don't have balsamic glaze, you can reduce regular balsamic vinegar by simmering it until thick and syrupy. Alternatively, you could use a honey-balsamic dressing, fig jam thinned with a little vinegar, or even a sweet reduced port wine for a different but complementary flavor profile.

→ Can I use different cheese instead of mozzarella?

Yes! While traditional Caprese uses fresh mozzarella, you can substitute with feta, halloumi (lightly grilled first), bite-sized pieces of provolone, or even small cubes of manchego for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese is firm enough to stay on the skewer.

→ What are some variations I can try with Caprese skewers?

You can enhance Caprese skewers by adding olives, cubed avocado, artichoke hearts, or small pieces of salami. Try seasoning with Italian herbs like oregano, or add a touch of heat with red pepper flakes. For a sweeter version, include strawberries or watermelon cubes alongside the traditional ingredients.

→ What type of skewers work best for this appetizer?

Bamboo or wooden toothpicks are perfect for single-bite Caprese skewers. For larger portions, small bamboo skewers (4-6 inches) work well. Decorative picks with colorful tops can add a festive touch for parties. Metal skewers are reusable but may be too large and heavy for these delicate appetizers.

→ How do I keep basil leaves from turning black?

To keep basil leaves fresh and green on your Caprese skewers, add them just before serving or position them between the cheese and tomatoes rather than exposed on the ends. Briefly blanching basil leaves in ice water can also help maintain their vibrant color when prepared in advance.