Description
These Caprese Appetizers on mini skewers are a fresh and flavorful bite-sized version of the classic Italian salad. Juicy grape tomatoes, creamy bocconcini cheese marinated in a zesty Italian vinaigrette, and fragrant basil leaves come together on toothpicks, finished with a drizzle of luscious balsamic glaze. Perfect as elegant hors d'oeuvres for parties or light snacks.
Ingredients
Appetizer Ingredients
- 20 cherry or grape tomatoes, halved and gently squeezed of juices
- 20 mini bocconcini cheese balls, halved (or 40 1/2-inch cubes from fresh mozzarella balls)
- 20 fresh basil leaves, halved or quartered (or cut into 1-1 1/2 inch pieces)
Marinade and Dressing
- 1/3 cup Italian or vinaigrette dressing
- Balsamic glaze for drizzle
- Optional: sea salt to sprinkle before serving
For Homemade Vinaigrette (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon or grainy mustard
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of dried or fresh herbs (optional)
For Homemade Balsamic Glaze (optional)
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1-2 tablespoons honey
Instructions
- Marinate Cheese: Combine the halved mini bocconcini cheese balls with 1/3 cup Italian or vinaigrette dressing. Let it marinate for 30 minutes or overnight to infuse extra flavor. This step is optional; if short on time, simply coat the cheese in the vinaigrette without marinating.
- Assemble Caprese Skewers: Place half a tomato on a clean surface with the cut side down. Pierce the tomato from the top with the pointed end of a toothpick, then add a basil leaf and finish with a marinated or dressed cheese piece. Repeat to make 20 mini skewers.
- Prepare Balsamic Glaze (if making homemade): In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, bring 1 cup balsamic vinegar and 1-2 tablespoons honey to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until syrupy and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Cool to room temperature before using.
- Presentation: Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic glaze in a zigzag pattern over a platter or cutting board. Arrange the Caprese skewers on top of the drizzle. Optionally, sprinkle sea salt on the appetizers for added flavor.
- Make Ahead: Completed skewers can be refrigerated covered with plastic wrap for a few hours or up to one day. Add the balsamic drizzle right before serving to keep presentation fresh.
Notes
- You can leave the cherry tomatoes whole if preferred, but appetizers may need to lie down instead of standing upright on the platter.
- To make your own vinaigrette, whisk together lemon juice or white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and optional dried/fresh herbs.
- Homemade balsamic glaze adds rich sweetness and depth; simmer balsamic vinegar and honey until thick.
- These appetizers can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated, making them a convenient party food.
- The balance of fresh tomato, creamy cheese, and aromatic basil makes these perfect for summer gatherings or light snacks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (for balsamic glaze, optional)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
