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Easy Patriotic Caprese Skewers Recipe for Perfect Summer Entertaining

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These easy patriotic Caprese skewers are a fresh, colorful, and bite-sized appetizer perfect for summer parties and casual gatherings. Featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil on skewers with a tangy balsamic glaze, they come together quickly and delight guests of all ages.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pint (about 300g) cherry tomatoes
  • 8 ounces (225g) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
  • 1 bunch (20-25 leaves) fresh basil leaves
  • 20–25 wooden skewers or toothpicks
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or reduction
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (optional)
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 pint (300g) of cherry tomatoes and pat dry. Halve tomatoes if large for better bite size. Place in a mixing bowl.
  2. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over the tomatoes. Add a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Gently toss to coat evenly. Let sit for 5 minutes to absorb seasoning.
  3. Drain liquid from 8 ounces (225g) fresh mozzarella balls and pat dry with paper towels.
  4. Gently rinse fresh basil leaves and pat dry. Select medium-sized leaves that fold nicely on the skewer.
  5. Assemble skewers by threading one cherry tomato, followed by a folded basil leaf, then a mozzarella ball. Repeat until all ingredients are used, aiming for 20-25 skewers.
  6. Arrange skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of balsamic glaze over the top just before serving.

Notes

Use fresh, ripe tomatoes and dry mozzarella thoroughly to avoid soggy skewers. Assemble skewers up to 2 hours ahead and refrigerate uncovered. Add balsamic glaze just before serving to keep basil fresh. For a vegan option, substitute dairy-free cheese or marinated tofu. For a warm variation, briefly grill skewers to lightly char tomatoes and melt mozzarella.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, patriotic appetizer, summer recipe, easy appetizer, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, balsamic glaze, Fourth of July, picnic food

Find it online: https://cheerycrisp.com/easy-patriotic-caprese-skewers-recipe-for-perfect-summer-entertaining/