Mini Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

Mini Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze are the perfect bite-sized version of the classic Italian Caprese salad — featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves, all drizzled with a sweet-tangy balsamic glaze. These little appetizers are not only visually stunning but also packed with fresh Mediterranean flavor.

Each bite offers a perfect balance — the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, the rich creaminess of mozzarella, the herbal freshness of basil, and the tangy finish of balsamic reduction. Simple, refreshing, and sophisticated, these skewers are a celebration of pure ingredients and vibrant flavors.

Why I Love This Recipe

I adore this recipe because it captures everything I love about Italian cuisine — freshness, simplicity, and beauty. The combination of tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella never fails to impress, but what makes it extra special is the balsamic glaze that ties everything together.

I love how quickly these come together — there’s no cooking, no fuss, and no compromise on flavor. They make entertaining a breeze, look beautiful on a platter, and can be customized easily. Plus, the burst of freshness from each skewer feels like summer in every bite!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This Mini Caprese Salad Skewers recipe is a must-try because:

• It’s elegant and effortless – perfect for any occasion, from dinner parties to picnics.
• It celebrates fresh, wholesome ingredients that everyone loves.
• It’s quick to prepare – takes just 15 minutes from start to finish.
• It’s healthy and vegetarian, yet full of flavor.
• It’s make-ahead friendly and travel-friendly for gatherings.

If you want a crowd-pleasing appetizer that looks gourmet but requires zero cooking, this recipe is an absolute winner.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 10–12 skewers
• Calories: ~70 kcal per skewer
• Course: Appetizer / Snack / Side Dish
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

For the Skewers:

• 20 cherry or grape tomatoes
• 20 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
• 20 fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)

Optional Garnish:

• A sprinkle of dried Italian herbs or crushed red pepper flakes
• Extra basil for serving

Equipment:

• 20 small skewers or toothpicks

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Rinse the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves, then pat them dry.
2. Drain the mozzarella balls and pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture.

Step 2: Assemble the Skewers

1. Take a skewer or toothpick.
2. Thread one cherry tomato onto the skewer.
3. Add a fresh basil leaf (you can fold it if large).
4. Follow with one mozzarella ball.
5. Repeat the pattern if using longer skewers (for a double Caprese effect).

Step 3: Season the Skewers

1. Arrange the assembled skewers neatly on a serving platter.
2. Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
3. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper over them.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touch

1. Drizzle balsamic glaze evenly over the top of the skewers right before serving.
2. Garnish with extra basil or a light sprinkle of herbs if desired.

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How to Serve

Serve the Mini Caprese Salad Skewers chilled or at room temperature.

Best for:

• Cocktail parties and buffets
• Holiday gatherings
• Picnics and brunches
• Side dish for Italian meals

Presentation Tip:
Arrange the skewers on a white platter or wooden board for contrast, and drizzle the balsamic glaze in a zigzag pattern for an elegant touch

Recipe Tips

• Use ripe, sweet tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Pat mozzarella dry — excess water can dilute the dressing and make the skewers soggy.
• Add the glaze just before serving to keep the basil fresh and vibrant.
• Make your own balsamic glaze: Simmer ½ cup balsamic vinegar with 1 tablespoon honey until thickened.
• For a uniform look, use similar-sized tomatoes and mozzarella balls.

Variations

1. Prosciutto Caprese Skewers:
   Add a thin slice of prosciutto between the tomato and mozzarella for a savory twist.
2. Pesto Drizzle:
   Instead of balsamic glaze, drizzle with homemade basil pesto or sun-dried tomato pesto.
3. Vegan Version:
   Substitute dairy-free mozzarella or marinated tofu cubes for a vegan-friendly alternative.
4. Tropical Caprese:
   Replace tomatoes with chunks of pineapple or mango for a sweet-and-savory summer variation.
5. Caprese Salad Cups:
   Skip the skewers and layer the ingredients in small cups for individual servings.
6. Spicy Caprese:
   Add a drizzle of chili oil or sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage:
  Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add fresh basil before serving if it wilts.
• Freezing:
  Not suitable for freezing — mozzarella and tomatoes lose texture after thawing.
• Make-Ahead Tip:
  Assemble the skewers (without basil) a few hours ahead, refrigerate, and add basil and balsamic glaze just before serving for freshness.

Special Equipment Needed

• Small wooden skewers or cocktail toothpicks
• Sharp knife (for trimming basil or cutting mozzarella, if needed)
• Serving platter

Conclusion

Mini Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze are the epitome of elegant simplicity. With their fresh, bright flavors and stunning presentation, they bring the charm of Italian cuisine to any table.

They’re quick to make, universally loved, and endlessly versatile — perfect for picnics, parties, or even light lunches. Each skewer is a perfect little explosion of sweet, creamy, and tangy goodness.

Mini Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

Mini Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze are the perfect bite-sized version of the classic Italian Caprese salad — featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves, all drizzled with a sweet-tangy balsamic glaze.

Author: Stella Parker Cuisine: Italian Course: Appetizer & Snacks

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Prep Time 15 mins Total Time 15 mins Difficulty: Beginner

Ingredients

Servings

For the Skewers:

• 20 cherry or grape tomatoes
• 20 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
• 20 fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)

Optional Garnish:

• A sprinkle of dried Italian herbs or crushed red pepper flakes
• Extra basil for serving

Equipment:

• 20 small skewers or toothpicks

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients : Rinse the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves, then pat them dry. Drain the mozzarella balls and pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture.
2. Step 2: Assemble the Skewers : Take a skewer or toothpick. Thread one cherry tomato onto the skewer. Add a fresh basil leaf (you can fold it if large). Follow with one mozzarella ball. Repeat the pattern if using longer skewers (for a double Caprese effect).
3. Step 3: Season the Skewers : Arrange the assembled skewers neatly on a serving platter. Drizzle lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper over them.
4. Step 4: Add the Finishing Touch : Drizzle balsamic glaze evenly over the top of the skewers right before serving. Garnish with extra basil or a light sprinkle of herbs if desired.

Keywords: Mini Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze