How to Make the Perfect Mini Caprese Skewers
Italian · Easy · 15 min · 12 servings
These elegant no-cook mini caprese skewers are the perfect fresh and light option to balance out the heavier game day fare on the appetizer table. Each skewer layers fresh mozzarella, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil then gets drizzled with balsamic glaze for a stunning presentation.
Why this recipe works
This Mini Caprese Skewers recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 15 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 120 calories with 7g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 16 oz fresh mozzarella balls ciliegine size
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
- 0.5 tsp flaky sea salt
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Drain the mozzarella balls and pat them lightly dry with paper towels. Wash and thoroughly dry the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves. Select medium-sized basil leaves that are large enough to fold but small enough to fit neatly on the skewer without overpowering the other components.
Step 2: Assemble the Skewers
Thread each small appetizer skewer or toothpick in this order: one cherry tomato, one folded basil leaf, then one mozzarella ball. Arrange the completed skewers neatly on a serving platter as you work. The alternating colors create a visually striking presentation.
Step 3: Dress the Skewers
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over all the assembled skewers on the platter. Follow with a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze zigzagged across the entire platter for both flavor and a professional presentation. Do not toss or disturb the arrangement.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the finished skewers right before serving for a final burst of flavor that brings all the components together. Serve immediately at room temperature or refrigerate without the dressing for up to 4 hours and dress just before serving.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- fresh mozzarella balls → cubed firm feta cheese for a tangier Mediterranean variation
- balsamic glaze → pesto drizzle for an herbaceous alternative
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Making the skewers too far in advance with the dressing applied which causes the basil to blacken and wilt
- Using wet tomatoes or mozzarella which dilutes the dressing and makes the platter look watery
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 120 calories, 7g protein, 5g carbs, 8g fat, 1g fiber.
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