The holidays are all about sparkle and celebration—and these Holiday Caprese Skewers are my go-to for adding a little festive flair without the kitchen stress. They’re colorful, fresh, and drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze that tastes like pure magic. Trust me, if you’re looking for a quick and elegant appetizer that gets guests talking (and munching!), this is it. Let’s make your appetizer game merry and bright!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s a reason these skewers make an appearance at nearly every holiday gathering I host. They’re ridiculously simple to put together, they look like edible ornaments, and they’re always the first thing to disappear off the platter.
- Festive colors make them perfect for entertaining
- Quick prep—done in 15 minutes!
- Healthy and fresh, but full of flavor
- Perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet
- No cooking required—just assemble!
Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 (8-oz) container of mini mozzarella balls (ciliegine)
- Fresh basil leaves
- 20–25 wooden appetizer skewers or cocktail picks
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Pro Tips
- Choose tricolor cherry tomatoes for extra holiday color
- Slice large basil leaves in half lengthwise to avoid overpowering bites
- If fresh mozzarella is packed in water, pat dry before skewering
- Use store-bought balsamic glaze for a shortcut, or make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until thickened
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by rinsing the tomatoes and basil leaves. Pat everything dry with a paper towel.
- If needed, cut larger basil leaves in half so each leaf fits nicely between tomato and mozzarella without overpowering it.
- Take one skewer and thread on a tomato, followed by a folded basil leaf and a mozzarella ball. Repeat or reverse the pattern for balance.
- Place all finished skewers on a serving platter.
- Sprinkle lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Right before serving, drizzle balsamic glaze over each skewer for that glossy, tangy finish.
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Layering order matters—placing basil between the tomato and mozzarella avoids slippery skewers.
- For party prep, assemble up to 8 hours ahead, and add the glaze just before guests arrive.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature—these skewers are delicious either way.
- Want to go extra fancy? Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or crushed pistachios on top.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Swap mozzarella with marinated feta cubes for a Mediterranean twist
- Use heart-shaped picks for Valentine’s Day or gold-tipped ones for New Year’s Eve
- Drizzle with a touch of honey along with the balsamic for a sweet-savory upgrade
- Serve alongside a charcuterie board for a vibrant, fresh element
FAQs
Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble them up to 8 hours ahead. Just store covered in the fridge and wait until the last minute to drizzle the glaze so everything stays fresh and pretty.
Where do I find balsamic glaze?
Most grocery stores carry balsamic glaze near the vinegars or salad dressings. Look for it in a squeeze bottle—it’s usually labeled as “balsamic glaze” or “balsamic reduction.”
What if I can’t find mini mozzarella balls?
No problem! Just cut fresh mozzarella into bite-sized cubes. Aim for roughly the same size as your tomatoes so the skewers stay balanced.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 (8-oz) container mini mozzarella balls
- Fresh basil leaves
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
- 20–25 wooden skewers or cocktail picks
Instructions:
- Wash and dry the tomatoes and basil. Pat mozzarella balls dry if needed.
- Assemble each skewer with a tomato, a basil leaf, and a mini mozzarella ball.
- Arrange on a platter, season with salt and pepper, and finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving.
Nutrition: ~60 calories per skewer
If you make these Holiday Caprese Skewers, don’t forget to snap a pic and tag me @thekitchensaid on Instagram! I love seeing your creations. Leave a comment below and let me know how they turned out—or share your favorite festive twists!
