Quick 15-Minute Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

A Taste of Summer on a Stick

Let’s talk about easy Caprese skewers. They are just tomato mozzarella skewers, but fancy. You put them on a stick. It makes everyone smile.

I call them my 15 minute appetizer. You can make them so fast. They are perfect party appetizers. You just thread, drizzle, and serve. Doesn’t that sound simple?

Why This Little Skewer Matters

Food should bring people together. These Caprese salad skewers do that. They are a make ahead appetizer. This means less stress for you when guests arrive.

That matters. You get to enjoy your own party. Also, they are a vegetarian appetizer and gluten-free appetizer. So almost everyone can enjoy one. It’s a kind thing to serve.

My Little Skewer Story

I first made these for my grandson’s birthday. He wanted “fancy food.” I had 20 minutes. I made these Caprese skewers with balsamic glaze.

He felt so grown-up. The whole plate was gone in minutes. I still laugh at that. Now, what was your first “fancy” food you made or ate?

The Magic of Just Three Things

The best flavors are simple. Ripe tomato, soft cheese, fresh basil. That’s it. The balsamic glaze is like sweet, dark syrup. It ties it all together.

*Fun fact*: This combo is named for the island of Capri in Italy. They know good food there. When you taste it, you will know why.

Let’s Make Them Together

Mix oil and herbs in a bowl. Toss your mozzarella balls in it. Now, the fun part. Thread tomato, basil, cheese. Repeat. Doesn’t that smell amazing?

Line them up on a platter. Drizzle with that glossy glaze. Done. Do you like to eat them right away or let them sit a bit? I can never wait.

Ingredients:

Instructions

Step 1: Grab your small bowl. Mix the olive oil and Italian seasoning in it. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Doesn’t that smell amazing already? This is the heart of your easy Caprese skewers.

Step 2: Toss all the mozzarella balls into your bowl. Gently stir them around. You want each one shiny and happy. (Tip: Let them sit for five minutes to soak up the flavor.) These little balls make the best vegetarian appetizer.

Step 3: Now for the fun part! Thread a tomato, then basil, then mozzarella onto a skewer. Repeat. You’ll make beautiful Caprese salad skewers. Do you prefer two or three tomatoes per skewer? Share below! This is why they’re the perfect party appetizer.

Step 4: Line up your finished tomato mozzarella skewers on a platter. They can wait in the fridge, covered. See? It’s a true make ahead appetizer. I love how the colors stay so bright. This 15 minute appetizer is almost done.

Step 5: Snip a tiny corner off a plastic bag. Pour the balsamic glaze inside. Drizzle it over your Caprese skewers with balsamic glaze. Serve right away for the best taste. Everyone loves this gluten-free appetizer. I still smile when I make them.

Creative Twists

Sweet & Salty: Add a small cube of cantaloupe or watermelon.Herb Swap: Try fresh mint leaves instead of basil for a different zing.Cheese Change: Use small cubes of firm avocado for a creamy, dairy-free version.Which one would you try first? Comment below!

Serving & Pairing Ideas

Lay your Caprese skewers on a big, green lettuce leaf. It looks so pretty. For a party, add a bowl of marinated olives nearby. These easy Caprese skewers also love grilled chicken or fish. Which would you choose tonight?

Keeping Your Skewers Fresh and Fabulous

Let’s talk about storing these easy Caprese skewers. They are a perfect make ahead appetizer. Keep them in a single layer on a plate. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap. Pop them right into the fridge. They will be happy there for a few hours.

I remember my first big party. I made tomato mozzarella skewers too early. I left them out on the counter. The basil wilted and looked so sad. Now I know the fridge is our friend. Storing them properly keeps every bite bright and fresh.

Batch cooking these party appetizers saves so much time. You can assemble dozens in one go. This matters because it lets you enjoy your own party. You won’t be stuck in the kitchen while guests arrive. Have you ever tried storing them this way? Share below!

Simple Fixes for Common Skewer Snags

Sometimes our 15 minute appetizer has little issues. Do your skewers tip over on the platter? Lay a bed of lettuce or kale underneath. It holds them steady and looks pretty. Are your mozzarella balls sliding around? Pat them dry with a paper towel first.

I once used huge basil leaves. They overpowered the other flavors. Now I choose small, tender leaves. This matters because balance makes every ingredient shine. You taste the sweet tomato, creamy cheese, and herby basil together.

Is your balsamic glaze too thick? Warm it for just five seconds. It will drizzle like a dream. Fixing these small problems builds your cooking confidence. You feel like a pro! Which of these problems have you run into before?

Your Quick Questions, Answered

What are Caprese skewers made of?

Caprese skewers are simple. You need cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves. You thread them onto a stick. A little olive oil and seasoning add flavor. They are like a Caprese salad on a stick. This makes them a fun, easy, and gluten-free appetizer for any gathering.

How do you make a quick balsamic glaze?

You can make a fast glaze at home. Pour one cup of balsamic vinegar into a pot. Simmer it on low heat. Stir it now and then. Let it cook until it gets thick and syrupy. This takes about 15 minutes. Let it cool before you drizzle it over your Caprese skewers with balsamic glaze.

Can I make Caprese skewers ahead of time?

Yes, they are a wonderful make ahead appetizer. Assemble them a few hours before your party. Keep them covered in your refrigerator. Wait to add the balsamic glaze until you are ready to serve. This keeps your tomato mozzarella skewers from getting soggy. Everything stays fresh and delicious.

What can I use instead of balsamic glaze?

A good swap is a splash of aged balsamic vinegar. It is thinner but still tasty. You could also use a pesto for drizzling. Another idea is a mix of olive oil and lemon juice. These all work well with these easy Caprese skewers. You will still have a lovely vegetarian appetizer.

How do you keep Caprese skewers from getting soggy?

The key is to keep things dry. Always pat your mozzarella balls dry with a towel. Make sure your tomatoes are dry too. Do not add the balsamic glaze until the last minute. Store your assembled party appetizers in the fridge without the glaze. This ensures every bite is perfect, not wet.

Are Caprese skewers served cold or at room temperature?

They are best served cold or just slightly cool. The fridge keeps the cheese firm and the basil perky. Take them out about 10 minutes before serving. Let them lose the deep chill. This allows the flavors to wake up. Then drizzle and serve your beautiful 15 minute appetizer.

Which tip will you try first?

A Little Note From My Kitchen to Yours

I hope you love making these skewers. They always bring smiles. *Fun fact: The name “Caprese” comes from the Italian island of Capri.* It represents the colors of the Italian flag. Isn’t that lovely?

Food is about sharing joy and simple moments. These little bites are perfect for that. I would love to hear about your cooking adventure. Have you tried this recipe? Tell me all about it in the comments below.

Happy cooking!
—Grace Ellington.