Fresh Caprese Skewers Recipe Easy Homemade Party Appetizer with Balsamic Glaze
Fresh Caprese skewers with balsamic glaze are an easy, fresh, and crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for casual get-togethers or elegant dinners. They combine cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil with a tangy homemade balsamic glaze.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 skewers 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pint (300 g) cherry tomatoes
- 8 ounces (225 g) fresh mozzarella balls (Bocconcini or Ciliegine)
- 20 fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup (240 ml) balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons (25 g) sugar or honey
- 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Wooden skewers or toothpicks (about 12-inch length)
Instructions
- Make the Balsamic Glaze: Pour 1 cup (240 ml) balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 2 tablespoons (25 g) sugar or honey. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until thickened and syrupy, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse cherry tomatoes and pat dry. Drain fresh mozzarella balls and slice any larger ones in half if needed. Wash and dry basil leaves.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread one cherry tomato, one mozzarella ball, and one basil leaf onto each wooden skewer, repeating once more if skewers are longer, aiming for 2-3 sets per skewer.
- Season & Drizzle: Arrange skewers on a serving platter. Lightly drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Finish with Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze generously over the skewers just before serving.
Notes
Use low and slow heat to reduce balsamic vinegar to avoid burning. Dry tomatoes and basil leaves well to prevent glaze from sliding off. Use fresh mozzarella balls for best texture. Add balsamic glaze and olive oil just before serving to avoid sogginess. Variations include adding prosciutto, using tofu for vegan option, or swapping herbs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 4
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 5
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 4
Keywords: Caprese skewers, balsamic glaze, party appetizer, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, easy appetizer, summer recipe, gluten-free appetizer