Mini Caprese Skewers with Balsamic

Name: Mini Caprese Skewers with Balsamic
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 skewers
Ingredients: 12 cherry tomatoes; 12 small mozzarella balls (bocconcini); 12 fresh basil leaves; Balsamic reduction (to taste); Salt and pepper (to taste); Skewers or toothpicks

Highlighted under: Fresh & Healthy Plates

I absolutely love these Mini Caprese Skewers with Balsamic! They're incredibly simple to make and packed with fresh flavors that make them perfect for parties or a light snack. The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil drizzled with a rich balsamic reduction truly elevates this dish. Plus, they are visually stunning, making them a fantastic appetizer to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Let me share my tips for the best presentation and taste in this delightful recipe!

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2026-02-04T15:17:27.779Z

When I first made Mini Caprese Skewers with Balsamic, I was surprised by how a few simple ingredients could come together so perfectly. The fresh basil adds a fragrant touch that pairs beautifully with the sweet tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. I remember standing in my kitchen, creating these skewers and marvelling at their vibrant colors, which made my kitchen feel alive!

A key tip I discovered is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients. It makes all the difference in taste. Additionally, allowing the balsamic to reduce slightly achieves a thicker glaze, enhancing the overall experience. Each skewer bursts with flavor, and I can't help but reach for a second serving!

Why You Will Love These Skewers
Fresh and vibrant flavors that brighten up any platter
Quick to prepare, requiring minimal cooking!
Customizable with your favorite herbs and add-ons

Choosing the Right Ingredients

When making Mini Caprese Skewers, the quality of your ingredients is paramount. Select ripe cherry tomatoes that are vibrant in color and slightly firm to the touch; they should be juicy, bursting with flavor. Opt for fresh mozzarella balls, preferably packed in water, as they provide a creamier texture and milder taste. Together these components create a delicious balance, enhanced by the herbaceous notes from fresh basil. If you're in a pinch, try using marinated mozzarella for an added layer of flavor.

Balsamic reduction is another essential component; consider making your own for a richer taste. Simply simmer balsamic vinegar over low heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Store-bought versions work fine, but look for high-quality brands that list balsamic vinegar as the primary ingredient. The right quality of balsamic reduction will elevate the skewers significantly, adding a sweet and tangy complexity that complements the freshness of the tomatoes and mozzarella.

Assembling the Skewers

The assembly of Mini Caprese Skewers is where you can get creative. Start from the bottom of the skewer with the tomato; it provides a sturdy base. When threading the basil, you can gently fold the leaf rather than using it flat. This enhances the release of its fragrant oils while also making it easier to thread. Remember, creating a visual appeal involves alternating colors and shapes, so consider alternating your assembly pattern or even using different tomato varieties for contrast.

If you're preparing these skewers ahead of time, store them uncovered in the refrigerator for up to two hours. This keeps the basil leaves fresh and vibrant. Just be sure to drizzle the balsamic reduction right before serving to prevent the skewers from becoming soggy. A light drizzle will create a beautiful gloss over the skewer, enhancing both flavor and presentation. Keep a small bowl of extra balsamic reduction on the side for guests who may wish for an extra dip.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delightful Mini Caprese Skewers:

Ingredients

12 cherry tomatoes
12 small mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
12 fresh basil leaves
Balsamic reduction (to taste)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Skewers or toothpicks

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to assemble your Mini Caprese Skewers:

Assemble the Skewers

Start by taking a skewer or a toothpick. Thread a cherry tomato onto the skewer, followed by a basil leaf and a mozzarella ball. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used.

Drizzle with Balsamic

Once all the skewers are assembled, arrange them on a serving platter. Drizzle with balsamic reduction and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve these delightful skewers immediately for the best taste!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider marinating the mozzarella in a bit of olive oil and herbs before assembling the skewers.

Serving Suggestions

Mini Caprese Skewers make a delightful addition to any appetizer spread. To elevate your presentation, serve them on a rustic cutting board or slate platter. Pair them with crusty Italian bread for a more substantial offering, allowing guests to create their open-faced bites. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding sliced prosciutto or olives alongside the skewers for an Italian charcuterie feel.

These skewers shine at parties but can also be served as a light lunch or snack paired with a simple green salad. For a more substantial meal, try serving them with roasted vegetables or grilled chicken, where the fresh flavors can offset richer dishes effectively.

Storing and Reheating

While these skewers are best served fresh, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. To maintain their quality, avoid stacking them vertically, which could crush the ingredients. Instead, lay them flat, separating layers with parchment paper to keep each skewer intact. If you have leftovers, use them in a salad or toss them with pasta for an easy, flavorful meal.

It’s not recommended to freeze these skewers due to the moisture content in the tomatoes and basil, which can lead to textural changes once thawed. However, you can prepare the individual components ahead of time; pre-chop the basil, wash the tomatoes, and keep mozzarella balls in their liquid until you’re ready to assemble. This method keeps everything fresh and ensures that you can whip up a batch of these impressive appetizers quickly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these skewers in advance?

Yes, you can prepare them a few hours before serving. Just keep them chilled in the refrigerator and drizzle with balsamic just before serving.

→ What is a good substitute for mozzarella?

You can use feta cheese for a tangy twist or avocado for a creamy texture.

→ How do I make balsamic reduction?

To make a balsamic reduction, simply simmer balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat until it thickens and reduces by half.

→ What can I pair these skewers with?

These skewers pair beautifully with crusty bread, olives, or a light white wine.