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Fresh Caprese Skewers Recipe Easy Homemade Appetizer with Sweet Balsamic Glaze

Fresh Caprese Skewers - featured image

A quick and easy appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella balls drizzled with a sweet balsamic glaze. Perfect for last-minute gatherings or light snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes (firm, ripe)
  • 20 to 25 fresh basil leaves, washed and dried
  • 8 ounces mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar (use good quality aged balsamic if possible)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
  • About 20 toothpicks or small skewers (bamboo or reusable metal)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves gently under cold water, then pat dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Drain the mozzarella balls and pat them dry as well.
  2. Pour ½ cup (120 ml) of balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of honey or brown sugar. Place over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally and let it reduce until it thickens to a syrupy consistency, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  3. Take a toothpick and thread one cherry tomato, followed by a folded basil leaf, and then a mozzarella ball. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
  4. Arrange the skewers on your serving platter. Lightly drizzle with 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper over the skewers to taste.
  5. Using a spoon or a small squeeze bottle, drizzle the sweet balsamic glaze over the skewers just before serving. If the glaze has thickened too much, warm it gently for a few seconds to loosen.
  6. For a little extra flair, add some cracked black pepper or a few microgreens on top. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.

Notes

Simmer the balsamic glaze gently to avoid burning. Pat ingredients dry to prevent soggy skewers. Drizzle glaze just before serving to keep skewers fresh. Can be made vegan by substituting mozzarella with firm tofu and honey with maple syrup. Light grilling adds smoky flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, balsamic glaze, appetizer, easy recipe, fresh basil, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, party food, quick snack