If you’re looking for a quick, crowd-pleasing appetizer that looks fancy but takes almost no time to make, Caprese Skewers are your new go-to.
These little bites are everything we love about a traditional Caprese salad — juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil — beautifully stacked on a skewer and drizzled with balsamic glaze. They’re fresh, colorful, and a guaranteed hit at any gathering, from summer picnics to holiday cocktail parties.
🌿 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Only 4–5 ingredients
✅ No cooking required
✅ Beautiful presentation for parties
✅ Fresh, healthy, and easy to prep
They’re one of those appetizers that taste like summer sunshine — even if you’re serving them in December.
🧺 Ingredients You’ll Need
- Mozzarella Balls – Mini mozzarella (ciliegine) is perfect here. If you can’t find them, cut larger mozzarella balls into bite-sized cubes.
- Cherry or Grape Tomatoes – Go for bright red, or mix in yellow and orange for a colorful platter.
- Fresh Basil Leaves – Don’t skip these! They’re what make a Caprese Caprese.
- Flaky Sea Salt – A sprinkle of Maldon sea salt takes the flavor to the next level.
- Olive Oil (optional) – For a light drizzle before serving.
- Balsamic Glaze (optional) – Adds a touch of sweetness and beautiful shine.
👩🍳 How to Make Caprese Skewers
- Assemble the Skewers
On each toothpick or mini skewer, layer a tomato, a folded basil leaf, and a mozzarella ball. Repeat if using longer skewers. - Add the Finishing Touches
Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze, then sprinkle with flaky salt. - Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately, or store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before serving.
💡 Tip: Make them the same day you plan to serve — the fresher, the better!
🍽️ Serving & Styling Ideas
- Mix Tomato Colors: Use a blend of red, orange, and yellow cherry tomatoes for a beautiful rainbow effect.
- Add Protein: Tuck in thin slices of prosciutto, salami, or pepperoni for a savory, Italian-inspired twist.
- Sweet Touch: Add a cube of cantaloupe, watermelon, or even a strawberry between the basil and mozzarella. The sweet + savory combo is chef’s kiss!
- Make a Platter: Arrange the skewers on a wooden board or platter, drizzle glaze in a zigzag pattern, and garnish with extra basil leaves for that Pinterest-perfect look.
🧡 Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The flavor of Caprese depends on freshness — ripe tomatoes and tender basil are key.
- Keep It Cold: If prepping ahead, refrigerate until serving and drizzle with oil and glaze just before serving to keep them vibrant.
- Marinate the Cheese: For a flavor boost, toss the mozzarella in olive oil, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt before assembling.
✨ Recipe Variations
- Italian Herb Caprese: Sprinkle with oregano or Italian seasoning.
- Honey Balsamic Version: Mix a little honey into your balsamic glaze for extra sweetness.
- Fruit Fusion: Try adding small cubes of melon or strawberry for a summer twist.
🥂 Perfect For:
- Holiday parties
- Baby showers & bridal showers
- BBQs and picnics
- Wine nights with friends
- Fancy-feeling weeknight appetizers
They’re simple, elegant, and always the first thing to disappear from the table.
📋 Quick Recipe Recap
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 10–12 skewers
Ingredients:
- Mini mozzarella balls
- Cherry tomatoes
- Fresh basil
- Olive oil & balsamic glaze (optional)
- Flaky salt
Instructions:
- Thread tomato, basil, and mozzarella on small skewers.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
- Sprinkle with flaky salt and serve fresh!
