Description
These vibrant Caprese skewers are a perfect blend of sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, drizzled with a flavorful basil-infused olive oil. Ideal for any gathering, they are not only delicious but also visually stunning.
Ingredients
Scale
- 20 cherry tomatoes (preferably on the vine for better flavor)
- 20 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 20 fresh basil leaves
- 10 wooden skewers (6 inches in length)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves (packed)
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (optional for added tanginess)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients and equipment, including the wooden skewers. Wash the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves under cold water, then pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Take a wooden skewer and thread one cherry tomato onto it, followed by a mozzarella ball. Slide on a basil leaf next, folding it if necessary to fit. Repeat this process until all skewers are assembled, placing 2 tomatoes, 2 mozzarella balls, and 2 basil leaves on each skewer. Aim for a colorful and balanced look.
- Prepare the basil drizzle by placing the packed basil leaves, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper into a blender or food processor. If using balsamic vinegar, add it now. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. This should take about 30 seconds to 1 minute. The drizzle should be a vibrant green with a slightly thick consistency.
- Once the drizzle is ready, taste it and adjust the seasoning. If it’s too garlicky for your liking, add a pinch more salt or a touch of vinegar for brightness. Set aside the drizzle while you prepare to serve the skewers.
- Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle the basil sauce generously over the top, or serve it on the side for dipping. This keeps the skewers looking fresh and colorful.
- Enjoy your Caprese skewers immediately! They are best served fresh, as the basil drizzle can lose its vibrancy over time. If you have leftovers, cover them tightly and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
Keywords: For the best flavor, use fresh mozzarella balls that are stored in water. If you need a dairy-free option, consider using marinated tofu cubes instead of mozzarella.