Caprese Skewers
Caprese is one of my favorite salads so we made these Caprese Skewers! This bright and flavorful combo of tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and basil is dressed with a simple olive oil and balsamic glaze.
Ingredients
Caprese Salad
- 2 cups baby tomatoes
- 2 cups Bocconcini cheese
- 1 cup Fresh basil leaves
Caprese Salad Dressing
- 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper
- 1/2 cup Moroccan olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic syrup or balsamic vinegar
- 1 pinch Chilli flakes
- 1/2 cup Garlic Croutons homemade or store bought
- 1/4 cup basil leaves torn
Instructions
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Prepare your bamboo skewers. It's best to use 6 inch, thick bamboo skewers. Avid using the thin ones, or skewers that are too long since the salad will not hold on well.
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Start by skewering the one tomato followed by a basil leaf folded in half.
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Add a piece of bocconcini cheese also followed by a basil leaf.
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Continue with another piece of tomato, a basil leaf, another piece of bocconcini cheese to finish off the skewer.
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Repeat with the bamboo sticks and arrange the Caprese skewers on a platter.
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Season lightly with salt and then a good olive oil drizzle.
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You can finish off with some chilli flakes if you like or skip the spice.
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Have a bowl of balsamic vinegar on the side for dipping the skewers to your taste.
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Or up your game by drizzling the balsamic glaze over the skewers and crumbling the croutons over the skewers.
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Serve right away and enjoy!
Recipe Video
Recipe Notes
Tips for Caprese Salad Skewers
- Use heavy Bamboo skewers for the recipe so that the salad doesn't fall apart from the skewer.
- It's best to use a medium size (no more than 6inch) skewer again so the Caprese ingredients stay firm on the skewer.
- Any fresh mozzarella works for the Caprese salad, however I find the bocconcini to be ideal as it's comparable to the tomatoes. Make sure to pat the cheese dry as it comes out of the water.
- Baby tomatoes, cherry or grape tomatoes are best since they're round.
- When alternating between cheese and tomatoes, make sure to have a basil leave between each layer.
- Make the Caprese Salad skewers up to 2 days ahead of time and keep them covered on a serving plate in the fridge. Avoid seasoning them yet.
- On the day of serving, season and dress the skewers.
- The simplest seasoning for the Caprese salad would be salt, pepper and olive oil.
- It's recommended to have a small bowl of balsamic glaze on the side for dipping the skewers in.
- You can add chilli flakes if you want a hint of spice.
- To take your Caprese Skewers to another level, crumble some croutons on top, drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze and drench them in good olive oil.
Variations to Try
- Fruit Caprese Skewers: Combine sweet fruits like strawberries or peaches with mozzarella and basil for a summer twist.
- Prosciutto Caprese: Add folded prosciutto slices between tomato and mozzarella for salty, savory depth.
- Cheese Alternative: Swap fresh mozzarella with feta, halloumi (lightly grilled separately), or dairy free options for dietary preferences.
- Herb Mix: If basil isn’t available, try mint or arugula for a bright, fresh flavor.
What are Caprese skewers made of?
Caprese skewers are made by threading cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto skewers, then drizzling them with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
Can I make Caprese skewers ahead of time?
Yes!! Best thing about this recipe is you can assemble the skewers a few hours before serving and refrigerate them tightly covered. Then add olive oil and balsamic glaze until just before serving to keep them fresh.
What size mozzarella is best?
Mini mozzarella balls that are similar in size to cherry tomatoes work best for balanced skewers.
Do I need balsamic glaze?
A balsamic glaze adds sweet, tangy complexity and is traditional, but you can use a simple balsamic reduction or serve balsamic on the side.
How long do Caprese skewers last?
Prepared skewers are best eaten the day they are made. If stored, keep covered in the fridge for up to 1 day; flavors peak when served fresh.
What toppings pair well?
A light sprinkle of sea salt, cracked black pepper, lemon zest, or a few micro greens can enhance flavor without overpowering the skewers.
Can I make them gluten-free or vegan?
Yes!they are naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, and easy to adapt for vegan diets using dairy free cheese alternatives.
How many skewers should I plan per guest?
As an appetizer, plan on 2–3 skewers per person.
Can you use toothpicks for caprese skewers?
While you can make them in toothpicks, you will have very limited space to add lots of ingredients. So it would be more of a bite size appetizer but it still works great!