Can I make Caprese skewers ahead?

You can prep the ingredients ahead (washing tomatoes, draining mozzarella), but wait to assemble until about an hour before serving. Basil turns sad and dark if it sits too long! I sometimes make little ingredient piles on the platter and assemble at the last minute when I'm feeling fancy.

What if I don't have balsamic glaze?

No worries! Just simmer ½ cup regular balsamic vinegar until it reduces by half (about 10 minutes). It'll thicken as it cools. I've even used a drizzle of honey in a pinch – the beeswax kind gives a lovely floral note!

Can I use regular mozzarella instead of bocconcini?

Absolutely! Just cube fresh mozzarella into 1-inch pieces. The key is using that soft, fresh cheese – the rubbery stuff just won't give you that dreamy creamy texture we're after.

How do I keep them from sliding off the skewers?

I give each tomato a tiny flat spot with my knife so it sits better. And don't overload them – one of each ingredient per skewer is perfect. If they're still wiggly, a quick chill in the fridge firms everything up nicely.

Caprese Skewers: Your Irresistible Party Lifesaver

Name: 10-Minute Caprese Skewers: Your Irresistible Party Lifesaver
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 cherry tomatoes; 12 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini); 24 fresh basil leaves; 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze; 12 wooden skewers

Description

Caprese skewers are a simple yet elegant appetizer featuring fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves drizzled with balsamic glaze.

Ingredients

12 cherry tomatoes
12 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
24 fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
12 wooden skewers

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Instructions

Rinse and dry the cherry tomatoes.
Drain the mozzarella balls and pat them dry.
Thread one tomato, one basil leaf, and one mozzarella ball onto each skewer.
Repeat until all skewers are assembled.
Arrange the skewers on a serving platter.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.

Notes

Use high-quality fresh mozzarella for best results.
If balsamic glaze is unavailable, reduce balsamic vinegar by simmering until thickened.
Assemble skewers shortly before serving to prevent basil from wilting.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 0 mins
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Italian