Classic Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

Envision a delightful culinary creation: Traditional Caprese Skewers with a delectable Balsamic Glaze. These skewers offer a burst of flavors, combining succulent cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. A touch of balsamic glaze adds a delightful twist

Each bite transports you to the essence of summer, providing an effortless yet gourmet snack for relaxed get-togethers or a quick and satisfying treat. Assemble these skewers with ease, savor the experience, and find yourself reaching for more – a true sensation for snacking enthusiasts!

These skewers are the stars of stress-free hosting

These skewers are the stars of stress-free hosting. Their charm lies in their uncomplicated nature; a handful of top-notch ingredients harmonizing in a symphony of flavors. The explosion of sweet tomatoes, the velvety indulgence of mozzarella, and the fragrant basil waltz gracefully on your palate, while the balsamic glaze adds a touch of zesty elegance. Whether you're throwing a laid-back backyard gathering, enjoying a casual rendezvous, or simply treating yourself to a quick nibble, these Caprese Skewers take snacking to new heights. So, don't hesitate, grab a skewer, and let the flavor celebration continue!

This was inspired by my other recipe on this site, and pairs well with this amazing sidedish recipe.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Serves: 4

Jump to:

• These skewers are the stars of stress-free hosting
• Ingredients needed to make Traditional Caprese Skewers
• How to make Traditional Caprese Skewers
• Variations on the Traditional Caprese Skewers recipe
• Storage for the Traditional Caprese Skewers
• Top tips for making Traditional Caprese Skewers
• Related
• Pairing
• Classic Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

Ingredients needed to make Traditional Caprese Skewers

16 red cherry or grape tomatoes
16 yellow cherry or grape tomatoes
32 medium fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
16 Ciliegine (mini-Mozzarella balls)
1 c. balsamic vinegar

Optional:
2 T. high-quality extra-virgin olive oil to drizzle

How to make Traditional Caprese Skewers

1. Thread a red tomato onto a wooden skewer. Next, fold one basil leaf in half, dark side facing out, and add it to the skewer. Add one mini-Mozzarella ball, followed by another folded basil leaf, and one yellow cherry or grape tomato, in order.
   
2. Repeat Step #1 with the remaining tomatoes, basil, and Mozzarella until you have 16 completed skewers. Arrange on a serving platter and set aside.
   
3. To prepare the glaze, add balsamic vinegar to a small sauté pan over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vinegar is reduced to about ⅓ of its original volume, approximately 8-10 minutes.
   
4. Remove glaze from heat and cool for several minutes.  Drizzle the glaze over the skewers, along with some extra virgin olive oil, if desired. Serve immediately. Enjoy!

Variations on the Traditional Caprese Skewers recipe

1. Mediterranean Twist: Add Kalamata olives to the skewers for a salty kick and a touch of Mediterranean flair.
2. Pesto Pizzazz: Drizzle pesto over each skewer layer to introduce a burst of herbal freshness to the classic combo.
3. Prosciutto Perfection: Wrap a thin slice of prosciutto around each mozzarella ball before skewering for a savory upgrade.
4. Berry Burst: Introduce fresh berries like strawberries or blackberries for a sweet and tart surprise.
5. Avocado Bliss: Slide in slices of creamy avocado between the tomatoes and mozzarella for an extra creamy texture.
6. Balsamic Reduction Magic: Replace the glaze with a balsamic reduction for a more concentrated, syrupy flavor.
7. Caprese Salad Cups: Transform the skewers into individual cups by layering the ingredients in small cups and drizzling with balsamic glaze.
8. Smoked Salmon Elegance: Add a slice of smoked salmon for a luxurious touch that complements the mozzarella beautifully.
9. Caprese Bruschetta Bites: Place the skewer ingredients on top of crostini for a delightful Caprese bruschetta twist.
10. Grilled Veggie Medley: Grill cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil before skewering for a smoky, charred flavor.

Storage for the Traditional Caprese Skewers

The storage duration for Classic Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze depends on the freshness of the ingredients used. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. After that, they may lose their freshness and become less flavorful.
2. Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella usually has a shorter shelf life compared to aged cheeses. Consume within a week or according to the expiration date.
3. Basil: Basil is best when fresh. To store, trim the stems and place them in a glass of water on the counter, changing the water every few days. Alternatively, wrap them in a damp paper towel and store in a plastic bag in the fridge for a few days.
4. Balsamic Glaze: Store-bought balsamic glaze typically has a long shelf life. Check the label for specific storage instructions. If you made a homemade glaze, it can be refrigerated for several weeks.

For optimal freshness and flavor, it's advisable to assemble the skewers just before serving. If you need to prep components in advance, store them separately and assemble right before enjoying. Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.

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Pairing

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