Easy Caprese Skewers Recipe
Some appetizers look like you spent ages putting them together, even when they barely require any prep. These Caprese skewers are one of them. Juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil make a colorful little bite, finished with olive oil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
They’re an easy addition to a holiday appetizer platter, backyard gathering, bridal shower, or casual dinner with friends. There’s no cooking involved, and you can assemble them ahead of time so you have one less thing to do when guests arrive.
The red, white, and green colors are especially pretty for Christmas, but this is an appetizer you can serve all year.
Why You’ll Love These Caprese Skewers
- No cooking required: Simply prep, thread, and drizzle.
- A short ingredient list: Fresh ingredients provide plenty of flavor.
- Easy to serve: Individual skewers make them convenient for appetizer tables.
- Simple to scale: Make a small platter or double the recipe for a crowd.
- Fresh and colorful: They’re a lovely addition alongside richer party snacks.
Recipe at a Glance
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Yield: 24 small skewers
Servings: 12, allowing 2 skewers per person
Ingredients
- 24 cherry or grape tomatoes
- 24 small fresh mozzarella balls, such as ciliegine, about 8 ounces drained
- 24 small fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 24 appetizer picks or short wooden skewers
Ingredient Notes
Tomatoes: Choose firm, ripe tomatoes that are easy to eat in one bite. Cherry tomatoes tend to be rounder, while grape tomatoes are often a little firmer. Either works well.
Mozzarella: Use fresh mozzarella packed in water or brine, rather than low-moisture shredded mozzarella. Ciliegine are a convenient size for skewers. If you use smaller mozzarella pearls, thread two or three onto each pick.
Basil: Small leaves fit neatly between the tomato and mozzarella. Fold larger leaves in half so they don’t overwhelm the skewer.
Balsamic glaze: Glaze is thicker than balsamic vinegar and stays on the skewers more easily. A store-bought glaze keeps this recipe quick.
How to Make Caprese Skewers
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Wash the tomatoes and pat them dry. Drain the mozzarella balls and gently blot away excess moisture with paper towels.
Rinse the basil if needed, then dry it carefully. Dry ingredients help prevent a watery serving platter.
2. Assemble the Skewers
Thread one tomato, one basil leaf, and one mozzarella ball onto each appetizer pick.
Fold the basil leaf if it is large. Leave enough room at one end of the pick for guests to hold it comfortably.
3. Arrange on a Platter
Place the assembled skewers on a serving platter in rows or a loose circular pattern. Keep them in a single layer so the toppings reach each one.
4. Add the Finishing Touches
Just before serving, drizzle the skewers with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Sprinkle lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Start with a thin drizzle of glaze—you can always add more, but too much can cover up the fresh tomato and basil flavors.
Tips for the Best Caprese Skewers
Choose Ingredients of Similar Size
Tomatoes and mozzarella balls that are roughly the same size make balanced, easy-to-eat skewers.
Keep the Basil Protected
Place the basil between the tomato and mozzarella to help hold it in place. Handle the leaves gently to avoid bruising them.
Season Right Before Serving
Salt draws moisture out of tomatoes, so add it at the last minute to keep the platter looking fresh.
Keep the Glaze Light
A few thin lines of balsamic glaze add sweetness and tang without making the skewers messy to pick up.
Make-Ahead Instructions
You can assemble the skewers up to 4 hours before serving. Arrange them in a shallow airtight container or on a covered platter and refrigerate.
Wait to add the olive oil, balsamic glaze, salt, and pepper until you’re ready to serve.
For prep the day before, wash and dry the tomatoes and drain the mozzarella, then refrigerate them separately. Assemble with fresh basil on the day of your gathering for the prettiest result.
Easy Variations
Add Prosciutto
Fold a small strip of prosciutto and thread it onto each skewer for a savory addition.
Use Colorful Tomatoes
Mix red, yellow, and orange cherry tomatoes for a bright summer appetizer platter.
Add Cucumber
Include a thick half-moon of cucumber for extra crunch. Use slightly longer picks to accommodate the additional ingredient.
Try a Pesto Finish
Replace the olive oil with a light drizzle of pesto. Thin it with a little olive oil if needed so it drizzles easily.
Make Longer Skewers
For a larger appetizer, alternate two tomatoes, two mozzarella balls, and basil leaves on each skewer. This version makes 12 longer skewers using the same ingredient quantities.
What to Serve With Caprese Skewers
These fresh bites pair well with:
- BLT crostini
- Loaded mini baked potato bites
- Crackers and sliced cheeses
- A charcuterie board
- Stuffed mushrooms
- Mini sandwiches
- Grilled chicken or pasta salad
For a Christmas party, arrange them in a ring on a round platter and add a few fresh basil leaves around the edges for a simple wreath-inspired presentation.
How to Store Leftovers
Refrigerate leftover skewers in an airtight container and enjoy within 1–2 days. They look and taste best on the day they’re assembled, since the basil can darken and the tomatoes may release moisture after seasoning.
Freezing isn’t recommended because it changes the texture of the fresh ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular mozzarella instead of mozzarella balls?
Yes. Cut a ball of fresh mozzarella into bite-size cubes and gently pat them dry before assembling.
Can I make these without balsamic glaze?
Absolutely. Olive oil, salt, and pepper are enough for a simple finish. You can also serve the glaze on the side so guests can add their own.
Do I need to marinate the mozzarella?
No. Plain fresh mozzarella works well here. If you use marinated mozzarella, drain it first and reduce or omit the added olive oil.
How many skewers should I make per person?
Plan on 2–3 small skewers per person when serving them alongside several other appetizers. Make more if they’re one of only a few snacks available.
Can I serve them without skewers?
Yes. Arrange the tomatoes, mozzarella, and torn basil in a shallow serving bowl, then add the olive oil, glaze, and seasonings for a simple Caprese salad.
A Fresh Appetizer That’s Easy to Put Together
With juicy tomatoes, soft mozzarella, and fragrant basil, these Caprese skewers bring plenty of flavor to the party without a long ingredient list. Assemble a platter ahead of time, add the finishing drizzle before serving, and they’re ready for guests to enjoy.
