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Fresh Loaded Caprese Skewers with Sweet Balsamic Drizzle

Fresh Loaded Caprese Skewers - featured image

These Fresh Loaded Caprese Skewers combine creamy mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil with a thick, sweet balsamic reduction for a quick, fresh, and crowd-pleasing summer snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 cherry tomatoes, preferably vine-ripened
  • 20 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
  • 20 fresh basil leaves, whole
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • About 20 wooden skewers or toothpicks, soaked in water for 10 minutes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the balsamic drizzle: Pour ½ cup balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally and let it reduce until thick and syrupy, about 10-12 minutes. Watch carefully so it doesn’t burn. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  2. Prep the tomatoes and mozzarella: If your cherry tomatoes are large, halve them. Drain mozzarella balls well to avoid watery skewers. Gently pat basil leaves dry with a paper towel.
  3. Toss tomatoes in olive oil and seasoning: In a mixing bowl, lightly coat the tomatoes with 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
  4. Assemble the skewers: Thread the ingredients onto each skewer in this order: one cherry tomato, one basil leaf (folded if large), one mozzarella ball, repeat until skewer is loaded but not overcrowded (usually 3 sets per skewer).
  5. Plate and drizzle: Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle the cooled balsamic reduction generously over the top. Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
  6. Serve immediately: Best enjoyed fresh. If needed, cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours. Bring back to room temperature before serving.

Notes

Keep the balsamic reduction on low heat and stir often to prevent burning. Soak wooden skewers in water before use if grilling. Assemble skewers just before serving to keep basil fresh and prevent sogginess. The balsamic drizzle can be stored in the fridge for up to a week and gently warmed before use if thickened.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, balsamic drizzle, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, summer appetizer, easy recipe, finger food