Whether it’s a late-summer Italian dinner party or you’re just trying to make that party food buffet look like you planned it more than five minutes ago (no shame!), these Caprese Skewers bring flavor, style, and ease. Around here, we don’t just toss salads.
Why You’ll Fall for These Skewers
- They look impressive with zero stress—ideal for catering ideas food.
- You get all the flavor of a Caprese Salad in a one-hand snack.
- They’re the poster child for yummy healthy snacks.
Let’s Talk Ingredients
Don’t be fooled by the simplicity each bite of these skewers is packed with bright, balanced flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet, tangy, and poppable. Look for firm ones to hold their shape on the skewer.
Fresh Mozzarella Balls (Bocconcini): Creamy and mild, these give the skewers their dreamy texture.
Fresh Basil Leaves: Aromatic and slightly peppery, basil brings the signature Caprese flavor.
Olive Oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil, it ties the ingredients together with richness.
Balsamic Glaze: A sweet and tangy drizzle that makes each skewer taste like a million bucks.
Salt & Pepper: Just a pinch to bring out those natural flavors.
Skewers: Use 4- to 6-inch skewers or cocktail picks, they’re easier to plate and snack on.
How to Make Caprese Salad Skewers
Pull out your skewers and your playlist—this part’s quick and satisfying.
Start with a tomato. Spear it gently, it’s the juicy intro to your bite. Then slide on a basil leaf (fold it in half if it’s big), followed by a mozzarella ball. Repeat that order if you’re using long skewers. You can alternate or stack them, there’s no wrong way to layer love.
Once all your skewers are assembled, arrange them on a platter. Give them a light brush of olive oil, then a bold drizzle of balsamic glaze. Finish with salt and pepper just before serving so the basil doesn’t wilt.
Your Kitchen Sidekick Tips
Let’s level-up your skewer game with these tested tricks:
Marinate the mozzarella: Toss it in olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Let it sit for 30 minutes. The flavor payoff is chef’s kiss.
Choose color wisely: Use heirloom cherry tomatoes in a rainbow of reds, yellows, and oranges. Your platter will steal the show.
Serve chilled but not icy: Take them out of the fridge 10–15 minutes before serving. You want flavor, not frostbite.
Use toothpicks for minis: Want mini bites for a cocktail hour? Use picks and one tomato-mozzarella-basil set per skewer. Bite-sized perfection.
How to Serve ‘Em Up Right
These Caprese Skewers shine on their own, but they’re also perfect with:
• A rustic charcuterie board featuring olives, salami, and focaccia
• A bowl of lemony pasta like this homemade tagliolini
• As a light starter before something hearty like this Tuna Genovese
Caprese Salad Skewers
Ingredients
- – Cherry tomatoes
- – Fresh mozzarella balls
- – Fresh basil leaves
- – Olive oil
- – Balsamic glaze
- – Salt and pepper
- – 6-inch skewers or picks
Instructions
- Skewer a cherry tomato, a folded basil leaf, and a mozzarella ball. Repeat for longer skewers.
- Arrange skewers on a serving platter.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Notes
- Marinate mozzarella for extra flavor.
- Use colorful tomatoes for presentation.
- Make skewers same day for freshest basil.
- Don’t drizzle balsamic until ready to serve.
FAQs
How far in advance can I make Caprese Salad Skewers?
You can assemble them up to 6 hours in advance and store in the fridge, covered. Just don’t drizzle the balsamic until serving to keep the basil vibrant.
Can I use different cheese instead of mozzarella?
You sure can! Small cubes of feta or goat cheese work, though they crumble easier—just skewer carefully and skip the marinade if they’re already salty.
What if my basil looks wilted before serving?
Gently dunk the leaves in ice water for 5 minutes, then pat dry. It perks them right up like a cold splash on a hot day.
How do I make these for a large crowd?
Use an assembly line: one person skewers tomatoes, one handles basil, one does cheese. Put on some music and treat it like the pre-party party!
A Bite of Italy, A Dash of Southern Charm
Caprese Salad Skewers are proof that good things come on sticks. They’re a little rustic, a little fancy, and just plain craveable. Whether you’re setting up a party food buffet, hunting for easy skewer recipes, or curating your next round of catering ideas food, this one’s a keeper. Now go ahead, grab a skewer.
