These Balsamic Glazed Caprese Skewers are a fresh and tasty treat! They feature juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil drizzled with a sweet balsamic glaze. Yum!
They’re perfect for parties or a quick snack. I love how easy they are to assemble—just thread the ingredients on a skewer, drizzle the glaze, and enjoy! Who knew healthy could taste this good? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and juicy, making them perfect for skewers. If you can’t find them, grape tomatoes work too. Both types fit well into your mouth in a single bite!
Fresh Mozzarella Balls: Known as bocconcini, they provide creaminess. If you’re vegan, try using tofu or vegan mozzarella as a substitution for similar texture.
Fresh Basil Leaves: Basil adds great flavor. If you can’t find fresh basil, try Italian parsley or even arugula for a peppery twist.
Balsamic Vinegar: This gives the dish its tangy sweetness. If you prefer, balsamic glaze is an easy alternative, or you could use red wine vinegar, but you might want to adjust the sweetness.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Both help to balance the acidity of the balsamic. For a vegan option, maple syrup works great!
How Do You Make the Perfect Balsamic Glaze?
Creating a balsamic glaze is easier than you might think! The key is in the simmering. This thickens the vinegar and concentrates its flavor.
- Start with high-quality balsamic vinegar. The better the vinegar, the richer the flavor.
- Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low. Patience is key—don’t rush! Stir occasionally.
- Watch for it to reduce by half and become syrupy; this usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
- Once done, let it cool to thicken further and enhance its sweetness. Use it to drizzle over your skewers right before serving for a beautiful finish!
Balsamic Glazed Caprese Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 cherry tomatoes
- 20 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 20 fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for glaze sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 10 wooden skewers (6-inch), soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty appetizer takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook the balsamic glaze, for a total of around 30 minutes. It’s quick to make and perfect for gatherings or for a delicious snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Balsamic Glaze:
In a small saucepan, pour the balsamic vinegar. If you like it sweeter, add honey or brown sugar. Heat it on medium until it starts to boil gently. Then, lower the heat and let it simmer. Stir occasionally, and keep an eye on it until it reduces by half and thickens into a syrup (this should take about 10-15 minutes). Once it looks nice and thick, remove it from heat and let it cool.
2. Assemble the Skewers:
Grab your soaked wooden skewers and start threading the ingredients! On each skewer, add one cherry tomato, then a basil leaf (you can fold it if it’s big), followed by a mozzarella ball. You can add another set (tomato, basil, mozzarella) if there’s enough space or just stick with one set per skewer—whatever feels best!
3. Season the Skewers:
Once all the skewers are assembled, place them on a serving platter. Drizzle the olive oil over them evenly. Then, sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. This will elevate the flavors beautifully!
4. Drizzle the Balsamic Glaze:
Take your cooled balsamic glaze and drizzle it generously over the skewers. This adds a wonderful touch of sweetness and tang!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
These skewers are best enjoyed at room temperature, so serve them right away. They’re perfect as an appetizer or for a party snack. Enjoy the delightful mix of fresh, creamy, and tangy flavors!
Can I Make the Balsamic Glaze Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the balsamic glaze up to a week in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to use it, simply warm it gently to re-liquify before drizzling over the skewers.
What Type of Skewers Should I Use?
Wooden skewers are perfect for this recipe, especially the 6-inch size. It’s best to soak them in water for about 30 minutes before using them, which helps prevent burning during cooking or grilling. If you prefer, you can also use metal skewers.
Can I Use Different Ingredients?
Of course! Feel free to get creative. You can substitute cherry tomatoes with bell peppers or cucumber slices. For the cheese, try feta or even a vegan cheese option for a dairy-free twist. Just keep the balance of flavors in mind!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftover skewers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The tomatoes and mozzarella may lose some firmness, but they’ll still taste delicious! Enjoy them cold, or give them a quick reheat in the microwave if you prefer them warm.
