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Fresh Caprese Skewers with Sweet Balsamic Drizzle

fresh Caprese skewers - featured image

A quick and easy appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil on skewers, finished with a homemade sweet balsamic glaze. Perfect for light snacks or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 cherry tomatoes, ripe and firm
  • 20 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine size)
  • 20 fresh basil leaves, whole
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Β½ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey or pure maple syrup
  • Pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the balsamic drizzle: Pour Β½ cup (120 ml) of balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of honey or maple syrup and a pinch of salt if using. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a syrupy consistency that coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  2. Prep the fresh ingredients: Rinse 20 cherry tomatoes and pat dry. Drain 20 fresh mozzarella balls and gently pat dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture. Pick about 20 whole basil leaves, discarding any that are bruised or torn.
  3. Assemble the skewers: Take one skewer and thread a cherry tomato first, followed by a basil leaf folded in half if large, then a mozzarella ball. Repeat until all skewers are assembled.
  4. Toss and season: Place the skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Gently toss or brush oil and seasoning to coat evenly.
  5. Finish with balsamic drizzle: Using a spoon, drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze artistically over the skewers.

Notes

Pat dry tomatoes and mozzarella to avoid soggy skewers. Simmer balsamic vinegar gently to prevent burning. Assemble skewers ahead but add balsamic drizzle just before serving to keep them fresh. Wooden skewers are safer and easier to handle than metal.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, balsamic drizzle, appetizer, easy snack, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, summer recipe