These Candy Cane Caprese Skewers are a fun holiday twist on the classic dish! Stacked with fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes, they are festive and tasty.
Seriously, who knew healthy could be so cute? I love serving these at parties. Everyone wants to take a picture before they take a bite! 📸
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: These provide a juicy burst of flavor. If you’re short on fresh cherry tomatoes, you can use grape tomatoes instead, as they are equally tasty and convenient.
Fresh Mozzarella: Small balls are best for this recipe, but if unavailable, you can cut a larger mozzarella into cubes. You can also opt for a vegan mozzarella if you’re looking for a dairy-free version.
Basil Pesto: This adds a nice twist and flavor. If you’re short on basil, homemade or store-bought pesto works wonders. For a nut-free option, try pureeing fresh basil, olive oil, and nutritional yeast.
Balsamic Glaze: Though optional, it adds a sweet tang. If you don’t have it, a simple balsamic vinegar can work, but drizzle lightly as it is more potent.
How Do I Assemble Skewers Beautifully?
Assembling skewers in an appealing way can be tricky, but here’s a simple method:
- Start by threading a half cherry tomato and a mozzarella ball onto the skewer, followed by a basil leaf if desired.
- Continue alternating until you reach the end; aim for about 4-5 sets on each skewer.
- To make the candy cane shape, bend the top of the skewer to form a hook. This adds a festive touch!
- Finish by dolloping the pesto on each mozzarella for flavor enhancement and a pop of color.
With these steps, you’ll have beautifully arranged and delicious skewers ready to impress your guests!
How to Make Candy Cane Caprese Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 20 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), sliced if large
- ¼ cup fresh basil pesto
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- 10 wooden skewers (about 6 inches long)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun and festive recipe will take approximately 15-20 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for those holiday gatherings when you need to whip up a tasty appetizer in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Begin by washing the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves thoroughly. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half to make them bite-sized. If your fresh mozzarella balls are quite large, slice them in half as well. If they are smaller (like bocconcini), feel free to keep them whole!
2. Assemble the Skewers:
Take one of your wooden skewers and thread on a half cherry tomato, then a mozzarella ball, followed by another half tomato, and another mozzarella. Continue this pattern until you’ve reached the desired length on the skewer, forming a candy cane shape by bending the top into a hook. Aim for about 5 sets on each skewer for a lovely presentation!
3. Add the Pesto:
Using a small spoon or a piping bag, add a little dollop of basil pesto on each mozzarella piece along the skewer. This adds delicious flavor and looks nice, too!
4. Season & Plate:
Lightly sprinkle your skewers with salt and freshly ground black pepper for a touch of seasoning. If you’d like, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the skewers for an extra layer of flavor and a lovely presentation.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Arrange your colorful skewers on a serving platter, displaying them in a candy cane formation if you like. You can also garnish with fresh basil leaves around the skewers for a pop of color. These skewers are best served immediately as a fresh appetizer!
With their vibrant colors and delicious flavors, these Candy Cane Caprese Skewers will surely be a hit at your next holiday gathering! Enjoy! 🎉
Can I Use Different Cheese?
Absolutely! While fresh mozzarella is traditional, you can substitute with feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly.
How Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
You can assemble the skewers up to a few hours in advance! Just cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate. I recommend adding the pesto and any seasoning just before serving to keep everything fresh.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will be good for about 1-2 days, but keep in mind that the tomatoes and mozzarella might lose some texture over time.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. You can add ingredients like olives, pepperoni, or even roasted red peppers for extra flavor and variety on your skewers.