These Balsamic Glazed Caprese Skewers are a fun and fresh treat! With juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, they’re easy to make and perfect for any gathering.
Who wouldn’t love these colorful bites drizzled with sweet balsamic? They’re like little party favors on a stick! 🍅🧀 I love serving them as a light appetizer; they disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are sweet and juicy, perfect for skewering. A mix of red and yellow adds a nice pop of color. If they’re out of season, grape tomatoes can work as a substitute, just slightly sweeter.
Fresh Mozzarella: I love using bocconcini for its bite-sized goodness! You can use ciliegine, or even tear up a larger mozzarella ball. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using marinated tofu cubes instead.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil provides that aromatic touch. If you’re not a fan, you could swap in arugula or even spinach for a different flavor profile, but the taste won’t be quite the same!
Balsamic Vinegar: The star for the glaze! If you want a quicker option, you can use store-bought balsamic glaze, which is thicker. Otherwise, for a zesty twist, consider apple cider vinegar mixed with a bit of honey.
Honey or Brown Sugar: These are optional for sweetness in your glaze. If you’re avoiding sugar, maple syrup can be a delicious alternative.
How Do You Perfectly Assemble Skewers Without the Mess?
Assembling skewers might seem simple, but a little thought can make a big difference. Keeping the order consistent helps with presentation and flavor balance! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a mozzarella ball, then add a cherry tomato followed by a basil leaf. Repeat until you fill the skewer.
- Leave a bit of space at the bottom of the skewer for easier handling.
- Consider alternating the colors for visual appeal—it’s all about that delicious look!
Once assembled, place the skewers on a platter and drizzle with your balsamic glaze right before serving to keep everything fresh. Enjoy the ease of serving and eating these delightful bites!
Balsamic Glazed Caprese Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (a mix of red and yellow if possible)
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- Fresh basil leaves (about 16-20 leaves)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Wooden skewers (6-8, about 6 inches long)
For the Balsamic Glaze:
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1-2 tbsp honey or brown sugar (optional, for balsamic glaze)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to make the glaze. So, in just about 25 minutes, you’ll have a beautiful appetizer ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Balsamic Glaze:
In a small saucepan, pour in the balsamic vinegar. If you like a little sweetness, add honey or brown sugar. Heat it over medium heat until it starts to simmer gently, stirring occasionally. Turn the heat down to low and continue to simmer until the mixture thickens, which will take about 8-10 minutes. You want it to be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Once done, remove it from the heat and let it cool a bit!
2. Assemble the Skewers:
Grab a wooden skewer and start threading your ingredients! Begin with a mozzarella ball, followed by a cherry tomato, and then place a fresh basil leaf. If the basil leaf is large, you can fold it in half. Keep repeating this pattern until your skewer is filled—aim for about 3 mozzarella balls, 3 tomatoes, and 3 basil leaves per skewer. Depending on your skewer length, you can fit more or less!
3. Plate the Skewers:
After assembling, find a nice serving plate and arrange the skewers on it. Presenting them nicely can make them even more appealing!
4. Add Seasoning and Glaze:
Now it’s time to make these beauties even tastier! Lightly sprinkle some salt and freshly ground black pepper over the skewers. Then, take your balsamic glaze and drizzle it generously over the top. The aroma and presentation will have everyone excited!
5. Serve:
Your Balsamic Glazed Caprese Skewers are ready to shine! These skewers taste best when they’re fresh and served at room temperature. Enjoy them as a delightful appetizer or as a party snack. They’re sure to be a hit!
Enjoy these vibrant, fresh Caprese bites with the sweet tang of balsamic glaze perfectly complementing the creamy mozzarella and the bright basil!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While fresh mozzarella is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like feta, goat cheese, or even marinated tofu for a vegan option. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes for even assembly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
This recipe is already vegetarian! For a vegan option, simply use plant-based mozzarella or marinated tofu instead of dairy mozzarella, and ensure there’s no honey in the balsamic glaze, replacing it with maple syrup or agave syrup if needed.
Can I Prep These Skewers Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the skewers a few hours in advance, but it’s best to keep them covered and refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. Drizzle the balsamic glaze right before serving to prevent the basil from wilting and to keep the cheese fresh.
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the tomatoes may lose some firmness, but they’ll still taste delicious! Refrain from adding the glaze until you’re ready to eat them again.