Pin This vibrant skewer appetizer transforms the classic Italian Caprese salad into an elegant, bite-sized treat that's perfect for entertaining. The combination of juicy heirloom tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil creates a perfect balance of flavors that celebrates fresh, simple ingredients.
I first made these skewers for a summer garden party, and they disappeared within minutes. Now they're my go-to appetizer whenever I need something impressive that won't keep me in the kitchen while guests arrive.
Ingredients
- Fresh heirloom cherry tomatoes: Small, colorful varieties add visual appeal and burst with sweet-tart flavor. Look for firm tomatoes with vibrant colors and no soft spots.
- Fresh basil leaves: The aromatic heart of this recipe. Choose bright green leaves without any dark spots. Large leaves from the garden work beautifully here.
- Mini mozzarella balls: These creamy, mild cheese bites provide the perfect texture contrast. Fresh is best, ideally packed in water rather than oil for a clean flavor.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and ties the flavors together. Splurge on a good quality bottle with a fruity profile.
- Balsamic glaze: Provides sweet tanginess and visual contrast. Look for a thick, syrupy consistency that will cling to the skewers.
- Sea salt and black pepper: Enhances all the flavors. Flaky sea salt works particularly well as a finishing touch.
- Small bamboo skewers: Holds everything together beautifully. Cocktail picks with decorative ends add extra flair for special occasions.
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients:
- First rinse your tomatoes under cool water and gently pat them dry with paper towels. For the basil, wash each leaf individually and lay them between paper towels to absorb excess moisture. This prevents water droplets from diluting the flavors. Drain the mozzarella balls in a colander and gently pat dry to remove excess liquid, which helps the olive oil and balsamic adhere better.
- Assemble Skewers:
- Take each bamboo skewer and thread one tomato through its center, pushing it to the end. Next, fold a basil leaf in half or quarters if it's particularly large, and thread it onto the skewer. The folding helps release the aromatic oils. Finally, add one mozzarella ball, pressing gently to secure all ingredients. The combination creates the perfect bite with all three flavors.
- Arrange and Dress:
- Place your completed skewers on a serving platter, arranging them in concentric circles or straight lines for visual appeal. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil in a thin stream over all skewers, followed by a zigzag of balsamic glaze. The contrast of the dark glaze against the white cheese creates a beautiful presentation. Finish with a light sprinkle of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, focusing primarily on the mozzarella and tomatoes which benefit most from seasoning.
Pin The heirloom tomatoes are truly the star of this dish. I grow several varieties in my garden each summer, and nothing compares to the intense flavor of a sun ripened heirloom. My daughter actually started requesting these skewers for her after school snack after helping me make them for a neighborhood potluck last year.
Make Ahead Tips
While these skewers are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components separately up to a day ahead. Wash and dry tomatoes and basil, and store them separately in the refrigerator. The mozzarella can remain in its original packaging. Assemble skewers up to 2 hours before serving, but wait to add the olive oil, balsamic glaze, and seasonings until just before serving to prevent the basil from wilting and the cheese from absorbing too much moisture.
Creative Variations
The classic combination is wonderful, but don't be afraid to experiment. Try threading small cubes of watermelon instead of tomatoes for a sweet summer twist. Replace mozzarella with cubes of feta marinated in herbs for a tangier profile. For a heartier option, add a small fold of prosciutto or a piece of salami between the cheese and tomato. You can also incorporate other fresh herbs like mint or small pieces of arugula for different flavor notes.
Serving Suggestions
These skewers shine as part of an antipasto spread alongside olives, cured meats, and crusty bread. For a beautiful presentation, serve them standing upright in a shallow dish filled with rock salt, which keeps them stable and adds visual interest. They pair beautifully with crisp white wines like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, as well as light sparkling beverages. For a complete summer meal, serve alongside grilled vegetables and a simple pasta dish.
Seasonal Adaptations
Summer peak season Use the ripest heirloom tomatoes in multiple colors for the most flavor and visual appeal. Fall variation Incorporate small cubes of roasted butternut squash and sage leaves instead of tomato and basil. Winter option Use sun dried tomatoes rehydrated in olive oil with fresh mozzarella and a small piece of roasted red pepper.
Pin These skewers are a delightful way to bring a taste of summer to any occasion. Their simplicity belies their elegance and makes them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use other types of tomatoes?
Cherry or grape tomatoes substitute well for heirloom varieties if needed, maintaining sweetness and texture.
- → How do I keep basil leaves fresh on the skewers?
Pat basil dry before assembling and chill the skewers to keep the leaves bright and crisp until serving.
- → Can the mozzarella be replaced?
Try marinated feta cubes or burrata for a tangy or creamy alternative that pairs well with the other ingredients.
- → What wine pairs well with these skewers?
Crisp white wines like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc are excellent companions, balancing the fresh flavors.
- → Are these suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, the skewers are naturally gluten-free. Always check the mozzarella label for any added gluten-containing ingredients.
- → How far in advance can I assemble them?
Prepare up to 2 hours ahead. Store chilled and drizzle with oil and glaze just before serving for best taste.