Description
These Mini Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze are a fresh and elegant appetizer featuring ripe cherry tomatoes, tender mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil leaves, all drizzled with a rich homemade balsamic glaze. Perfect for parties or light snacks, they combine Italian classic flavors in a convenient finger-food format.
Ingredients
Scale
Skewers
- 12 fresh mozzarella balls (small, bite-sized)
- 12 cherry tomatoes (ripe and vibrant)
- 12 fresh basil leaves
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Sea salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Balsamic Glaze
- 1/2 cup high-quality balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Wash and thoroughly dry the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves to remove any moisture. Drain the mozzarella balls to ensure they are not watery.
- Prepare Skewers: Gather 12 wooden or metal skewers for assembling the appetizer.
- Assemble Skewers: Thread onto each skewer one basil leaf, followed by one mozzarella ball, and then one cherry tomato. If the skewer length allows, repeat the pattern once more to create a fuller skewer.
- Secure Ingredients: Gently press the ingredients together on the skewer to make sure they stay in place and are easy to pick up and eat.
- Season: Drizzle the skewers evenly with extra virgin olive oil, then season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper according to taste.
- Make Balsamic Glaze: Pour the balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes. Cook until the vinegar reduces and thickens into a syrupy glaze.
- Cool and Drizzle Glaze: Allow the balsamic glaze to cool slightly. Then, drizzle it generously over the assembled skewers for a tangy-sweet finish.
- Serve or Store: Serve the mini caprese skewers immediately for best flavor, or refrigerate them uncovered for up to 2 hours before serving. Add the balsamic glaze just prior to serving if chilled.
Notes
- Use high-quality cherry tomatoes and fresh basil for the best flavor.
- Make the balsamic glaze in advance and store in the refrigerator; reheat gently before drizzling if needed.
- If you prefer, substitute mozzarella balls with bocconcini or ciliegine mozzarella.
- These skewers are best served fresh but can be assembled a few hours ahead if kept refrigerated.
- For a twist, add a small piece of prosciutto or a drizzle of pesto before serving.
