Caprese Skewer Bites – The Best Evening Snack Recipe
Caprese Skewer Bites are a simple and elegant evening snack featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mini mozzarella balls drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze. These bite-sized skewers are perfect for parties or a light appetizer, offering a fresh and flavorful combination inspired by the classic Caprese salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Skewers:
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 package mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- Fresh basil leaves (about 20 leaves)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or reduction
- Salt to taste (about 1/4 teaspoon)
- Black pepper to taste (about 1/8 teaspoon)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 6 slices prosciutto (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 12 pitted olives
- 1 cup crusty bread cubes or toasted baguette pieces
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves under cold water and pat dry. Drain the mini mozzarella balls from their brine and set aside.
- Assemble the Skewers: Take small skewers or toothpicks and thread one cherry tomato, one fresh basil leaf, and one mini mozzarella ball onto each skewer in that order. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If using, thread a piece of prosciutto or an olive onto the skewers as desired or serve the crusty bread cubes on the side for extra texture and flavor.
- Dress the Skewers: Place the assembled skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle evenly with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze.
- Season and Chill: Sprinkle salt and black pepper evenly over the skewers to taste. Chill the platter in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to enhance the flavors before serving.
- Serve Fresh: Remove from the refrigerator and serve immediately as a refreshing and flavorful evening snack.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh basil with baby spinach leaves if basil is unavailable.
- Balsamic glaze can be replaced with a good-quality balsamic vinegar if a glaze is not available; just use less to avoid sogginess.
- Prosciutto and olives add a savory depth but can be omitted for a vegetarian option.
- For a gluten-free version, skip the bread cubes or use gluten-free crackers on the side.
- Use skewers that are about 3 inches long for easy handling and bite-size portions.
- Ensure mozzarella balls are well-drained to prevent excess moisture on the skewers.
