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Fresh Caprese Skewers with Sweet Balsamic Glaze

fresh caprese skewers - featured image

A simple, elegant appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil on skewers, finished with a homemade sweet balsamic glaze. Perfect for easy entertaining and crowd-pleasing summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, washed and dried
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
  • About 20 small fresh basil leaves, washed and dried
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar (preferably aged)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • About 20 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sweet balsamic glaze: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally and let it reduce until thick and syrupy, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Prep the ingredients: Rinse cherry tomatoes and pat dry. Drain mozzarella balls on paper towels. Gently rinse and dry basil leaves.
  3. Assemble the skewers: Thread one cherry tomato, one mozzarella ball, and one basil leaf onto each skewer. Repeat the pattern if desired for longer skewers.
  4. Arrange and season: Lay skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, then sprinkle with flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
  5. Final touch: Drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze over the skewers just before serving. If glaze is too thick, gently warm or add a splash of water to loosen.
  6. Optional: For a smoky flavor, briefly grill skewers 1-2 minutes per side before drizzling with glaze.

Notes

Assemble skewers just before serving to keep basil fresh and mozzarella from getting soggy. The balsamic glaze should be simmered gently to avoid bitterness or burning. If storing leftovers, keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours and bring to room temperature before serving. For a dairy-free option, substitute mozzarella with firm tofu or plant-based cheese and use maple syrup instead of honey in the glaze.

Nutrition

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