These Balsamic Glazed Caprese Skewers are a fun and tasty snack! With fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil all drizzled in sweet balsamic glaze, they are simply irresistible!
Perfect for parties or a light lunch, I love how easy they are to assemble. Plus, they look fancy but take just minutes to make. Who wouldn’t want to impress with these vibrant bites?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and juicy, great for grilling. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, you can use grape tomatoes or even small Roma tomatoes cut in half.
Fresh Mozzarella: Small balls, or bocconcini, are ideal. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, consider using part-skim mozzarella. For a twist, try using burrata for extra creaminess!
Fresh Basil: Use whole leaves for a fresh taste. If basil isn’t available, you can substitute with parsley or arugula, which offer a different but tasty flavor. Dried herbs aren’t the best match here, so go for fresh if possible!
Balsamic Glaze: You can buy this at the store or make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar in a saucepan. If you want a twist, try using a flavored vinegar like fig or raspberry!
How Do I Perfectly Grill the Skewers?
Grilling adds a lovely smoky flavor, but it takes a few tricks for the best result. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your grill is preheated. This helps to get those nice grill marks.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers. Leave enough space for even cooking.
- Watch the time closely! Grill for just 2-3 minutes per side. You want the tomatoes soft but not bursting.
- Let them sit for a minute after grilling so the cheese can set a bit. This makes them easier to handle and less messy!
Enjoy grilling your skewers and treating friends and family to this colorful delight!
How to Make Balsamic Glazed Caprese Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 cherry tomatoes
- 20 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 20 fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/3 cup balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
- Wooden skewers (6-8 inches)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 6 minutes for grilling, making the total time around 16 minutes. It’s a quick and easy appetizer that packs a lot of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium heat. It’s essential to have a hot surface for those delicious grill marks!
2. Assemble the Skewers:
Take a wooden skewer and thread on one cherry tomato, followed by one fresh basil leaf, and then one mozzarella ball. Repeat this pattern until you fill the skewer, or just keep one set if your skewers are shorter. Aim to fill each skewer to keep them beautifully vibrant!
3. Oil the Skewers:
Lightly brush the assembled skewers with olive oil on all sides. This helps them grill nicely and prevents sticking!
4. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Turn them gently to check for those lovely grill marks and ensure the tomatoes are softening without bursting and the mozzarella is warming through.
5. Season the Skewers:
Once grilled, remove the skewers from the heat and arrange them on a serving platter. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper over the top to enhance the flavors.
6. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze:
Finally, take your balsamic glaze and drizzle it generously over the skewers. This sweet tangy finish brings everything together!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Balsamic Glazed Caprese Skewers immediately while they’re warm. They make a lovely appetizer or snack for any gathering, and they’re always a hit!
Enjoy this simple, fresh, and colorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the skewers a few hours in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Just drizzle the balsamic glaze right before serving for the best flavor.
What If I Don’t Have Access to a Grill?
No worries! You can also roast these skewers in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until the tomatoes are softened and the mozzarella is melty.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the tomatoes may lose some texture, but they’ll still taste great! Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Can I Use Different Ingredients?
Absolutely! Get creative! You can substitute the cherry tomatoes with roasted bell peppers or zucchini. For a different flavor twist, try using flavored mozzarella or additional herbs like oregano or thyme.
