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Easy Fresh Caprese Skewers Recipe with Perfect Balsamic Glaze for Summer

Easy Fresh Caprese Skewers - featured image

A quick and simple summer appetizer featuring fresh cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, basil leaves, and a homemade balsamic glaze that brings a sweet-tart punch to every bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2024 cherry or grape tomatoes (halved if large)
  • 2024 fresh mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
  • 2024 fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup (240 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pour 1 cup (240 ml) of balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon of honey or brown sugar if desired. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
  2. Lower heat to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vinegar reduces to about half (Β½ cup or 120 ml) and thickens to coat the back of a spoon. Avoid burning.
  3. Remove from heat and let the balsamic glaze cool to room temperature; it will thicken further as it cools.
  4. Rinse tomatoes and basil leaves gently under cold water and pat dry. Halve or quarter large tomatoes to fit on skewers.
  5. In a mixing bowl, gently toss mini mozzarella balls with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
  6. Thread one cherry tomato, one basil leaf (folded if large), and one mozzarella ball onto each skewer. Repeat the pattern if skewers are longer, finishing with a tomato or mozzarella ball for balance.
  7. Arrange skewers on a serving platter and drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze evenly over the top just before serving. Optionally sprinkle flaky sea salt for extra texture.
  8. Add extra basil leaves around the platter for presentation if desired. Serve immediately or keep chilled for up to 2 hours before serving.

Notes

Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes before use to prevent burning. Make balsamic glaze a day ahead and refrigerate if desired. Handle basil leaves gently to avoid bruising. Assemble skewers shortly before serving for best freshness. Optionally grill skewers 1-2 minutes per side for smoky flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, balsamic glaze, summer appetizer, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, easy recipe, crowd-pleaser