Caprese Skewers are a fresh and tasty appetizer that’s super easy to make! They combine juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil leaves on a stick.
These colorful bites are perfect for any gathering, and they disappear fast! I love drizzling a little balsamic glaze on top to give them a special touch. Yum! 🍅🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: The star of the skewer! You can use grape tomatoes as a substitute if you can’t find cherry tomatoes. Both are sweet and juicy. I love roasting them to bring out even more flavor.
Fresh Mozzarella Balls: Bocconcini are great, but you could also use ciliegine (small mozzarella balls) or even feta for a different twist. I prefer the creaminess of mozzarella, which pairs so well with the tomatoes.
Basil Leaves: Fresh basil is key for that classic Caprese flavor. If fresh isn’t available, try using a teaspoon of dried basil instead. It’s not the same but will still add a nice aromatic touch!
Balsamic Vinegar: Balsamic glaze is thicker and sweeter, great for drizzling. If you don’t have either, a splash of lemon juice can brighten the dish too. I often switch it up depending on my mood!
How Do I Ensure My Tomatoes Are Perfectly Roasted?
Roasting your tomatoes enhances their sweetness and adds a lovely softness. Here are key steps to get it right:
- Use a baking sheet lined with parchment for easy cleanup.
- Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes; watch closely as they should just burst.
- Let them cool slightly after roasting. This helps maintain their shape when skewering.
Perfectly roasted tomatoes will add depth to your skewers and make them standout!
Caprese Skewers Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 24 cherry tomatoes
- 24 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 24 fresh basil leaves
- Wooden skewers (6 skewers, 4 items per skewer)
For the Herb Oil Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional, or fresh chopped basil or oregano)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 fresh garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 10-15 minutes for roasting the tomatoes. Total time is approximately 30-35 minutes. Quick and simple, perfect for a gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Roast the Tomatoes:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the cherry tomatoes on the baking sheet and roast them for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll know they are done when they start to soften and burst. Once roasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
2. Make the Herb Oil Dressing:
While the tomatoes are roasting, it’s time to prepare the tasty herb oil dressing. In a small bowl, mix together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or glaze), minced garlic, dried Italian herbs (if you’re using them), salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir — it should smell amazing!
3. Assemble the Skewers:
Now it’s time to build our skewers! Take a wooden skewer and thread on one roasted cherry tomato, followed by one mozzarella ball, and then one basil leaf. Repeat until all ingredients are used, aiming for 4 items per skewer. This layering gives each bite all those wonderful flavors!
4. Drizzle and Serve:
Arrange the assembled skewers on a serving platter. Generously drizzle your prepared herb oil mixture over the skewers, adding a burst of deliciousness! If you like, you can also broil the skewers for 1-2 minutes to warm the cheese and meld the flavors, but you can serve them as is too.
5. Enjoy!
Serve your Caprese skewers immediately and enjoy this fresh, vibrant appetizer that is sure to impress your friends and family!
This recipe captures the essence of classic Caprese salad with a fun twist. The roasted tomatoes bring a deeper flavor, and the herb dressing makes for a delightful finish. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While fresh mozzarella is traditional, you can use feta, goat cheese, or even mini provolone for a different flavor. Just ensure it complements the sweet tomatoes well!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that tomatoes may lose some of their texture, but they will still be delicious!
Can I Make These Skewers Vegan?
Yes! Replace the mozzarella with vegan cheese or marinated tofu cubes. The rest of the ingredients are already plant-based, so it’s a simple swap!
What’s the Best Way to Serve Caprese Skewers?
These skewers are best served fresh, but you can arrange them on a platter and drizzle with the herb oil dressing just before serving for a lovely presentation. They also pair well with crusty bread or a light salad!