Experience the perfect combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh herbs with these tantalizing Caprese Skewers – a burst of summer flavors in every bite!
When it comes to effortless appetizers that bring a burst of color and flavor to any gathering, my Caprese Skewers are an absolute winner. I’ve been making these skewers for almost 2 decades along with my Prosciutto Mellon and Mozzarella Skewers and my Antipasto Skewers. This simple yet elegant appetizer or side dish showcases the vibrant colors of ripe tomatoes, paired with creamy mini mozzarella balls and aromatic herbs.
Think of a traditional caprese salad but on a skewer. It’s my go-to easy appetizer any time of the year. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a casual get-together, a potluck, or even a holiday dinner — these skewers are a must-have on your menu.
Why this Recipe Works
Flavor Combination – The marriage of sun-ripened tomatoes and velvety mozzarella is a match made in culinary heaven. The juicy sweetness of the tomatoes perfectly complements the rich, creamy texture of the mozzarella, creating a delightful burst of flavors in every mouthful. Paired with the vibrant freshness of basil leaves and if you want to get crazy a drizzle of balsamic glaze, these skewers offer a refreshing taste that will leave your guests craving for more.
Quick Prep Time – One of the greatest advantages of Mozzarella Tomato Skewers is their simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create an impressive appetizer that looks as good as it tastes.
Customization – Tomato Mozzarella Skewers provide a versatile canvas for culinary creativity. While the classic recipe calls for tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, you can customize these skewers to suit your personal taste. Consider adding marinated olives, proscittuto, or even a drizzle of pesto for added variety. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the skewers to fit the theme and preferences of your event.
Ingredients
- Tomatoes – I like to use grape tomatoes for this recipe; however, any small tomatoes like cherry tomatoes or mini San Marzano tomatoes work.
- Mozzarella – Mini mozzarella cheese is key for this recipe. I always purchase a tub at a whole sale club as it’s the most cost effective way to buy it. If you can’t find the mini mozzarella cheese balls you can cut pieces of fresh mozzarella de buffalo and skewer on the cut pieces.
- Basil – Fresh basil is absolutely key to a good caprese skewer. Whether you have small leaves or extra large you can work with them to make them look presentable on the skewer.
Directions
First, rinse and pat dry the tomatoes and basil leaves.
Using medium-size bamboo skewers, place one grape tomato on the skewer followed by a folded basil leaf. Next, skewer on one mozzarella ball then another folded basil leaf. Lastly, add a grape tomato on the skewer.
Repeat until all the ingredients have been used and you’ve made enough for your appetizer. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Recipe FAQs
Here you will find all of my most frequently asked questions when making caprese salad skewers.
If you’re not a fan of mozzarella or prefer a different type of cheese, feel free to substitute it with a cheese of your choice. Goat cheese, chunks of feta, or even chunks of cheddar can work well in these skewers, providing unique flavor profiles.
Yes! The great thing about Caprese Skewers is that you can easily double, triple, or even quadruple the recipe, by just adding more ingredients to be skewered on.
Certainly! While cherry or grape tomatoes are commonly used for their bite-sized nature, you can experiment with different tomato varieties such as heirloom or cocktail tomatoes. Just ensure that they are firm and ripe for the best results.
Caprese skewers are made of tomato, mozzarella, and fresh basil. Some people like to add balsamic glaze which compliments the skewers well–just wait to drizzle on top until you are ready to serve.
Tips & Tricks
Here are some of my tips and trick whenever I make caprese kabobs.
- Mini Mozzarella – I buy a large container from the whole sale clubs. The mozzarella comes packed in a seasoned oil. If the mozzarella doesn’t come in olive oil and seasoned — you can place the mozzarella balls in a bowl, drizzle some olive oil on top and sprinkle a teaspoon of Italian seasoning blend. Mix well then skewer.
- Balsamic Glaze – If you like balsamic you can drizzle a little balsamic glaze on top.
- Basil Leaves – This recipe requires fresh basil leaves. If you find yourself with extra large leaves feel free to fold the leaves or cut the leaves in half using smaller pieces.
- Make Ahead – You can make this recipe up to 1 day in advance. Please keep in mind that the basil leaves will start to turn brown in color and will no longer be a vibrant green.
- Bamboo Skewers – Wooden bamboo skewers come in many different sizes. I like to use the medium-size skewers. This size allows me to get 2 tomatoes, 2 basil leaves, and a mini mozzarella ball on one skewer with still having room to hold it. Can’t find this size skewer? You can use a cocktail pick and reduce the amount you put on one skewer to just one tomato, one piece of basil, and one mini mozzarella.
Italian Appetizers
If you are looking for more delicious Italian appetizer recipes from Antipasto Skewers to Baked Clams and Olive Tapenade I’m here to share a few of my favorites.
If you make this Caprese Skewers recipe, I would be honored and love for you to take the time to leave a ⭐ star rating and comment! I spend hours developing and testing these recipes, and always love to hear feedback and user experience!
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Caprese Skewers
Equipment
- 12 Medium-size Bamboo Skewers
Ingredients
- 24 Grape Tomatoes
- 24 Basil Leaves
- 12 Mini Mozzarella Balls
Instructions
- Rinse and pat dry the tomatoes and basil leaves.
- Using medium-size bamboo skewers, place one grape tomato on the skewer followed by a folded basil leaf. Next, skewer on one mozzarella ball then another folded basil leaf. Lastly, add a grape tomato on the skewer.
- Repeat until all the ingredients have been used and you’ve made enough for your appetizer. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
- Mini Mozzarella – I buy a large container from the whole sale clubs. The mozzarella comes packed in a seasoned oil. If the mozzarella doesn’t come in olive oil and seasoned — you can place the mozzarella balls in a bowl, drizzle some olive oil on top and sprinkle a teaspoon of Italian seasoning blend. Mix well then skewer.
- Balsamic Glaze – If you like balsamic you can drizzle a little balsamic glaze on top.
- Basil Leaves – This recipe requires fresh basil leaves. If you find yourself with extra large leaves feel free to fold the leaves or cut the leaves in half using smaller pieces.
- Make Ahead – You can make this recipe up to 1 day in advance. Please keep in mind that the basil leaves will start to turn brown in color and will no longer be a vibrant green.
Did you make this recipe? Let me know!