Caprese skewers are the easiest way to get that classic tomato-mozzarella-basil flavor in a bite-size appetizer. You get juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil all in one little “pop,” plus a sweet-tangy balsamic drizzle that makes them feel restaurant-level.
They’re perfect for parties, holidays, potlucks, and snack boards because you can make them in minutes and they look fancy without being fussy. And since there’s no cooking, caprese skewers are a true easy weeknight appetizer when you want something quick before dinner.
If you’ve ever brought caprese skewers to a gathering, you know what happens: everyone keeps “just grabbing one more.” It’s a total fan-favorite, and people always ask for the recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Caprese Skewers
- Ultimate crowd-pleaser: Bright, fresh flavors that work for almost any party spread.
- No-cook and fast: You can assemble these in about 10 minutes.
- Better than catered: They look polished and colorful, like you ordered them.
- Easy to customize: Add pesto, swap in marinated mozzarella, or spice up the drizzle.
- Perfect for make-ahead: Assemble, chill, then drizzle right before serving.
- Light but satisfying: A fresh appetizer that still feels filling.
Ingredients for Caprese Skewers
Here’s what you need for the best caprese skewers:
- Cherry tomatoes (about 1 pint): Juicy and sweet; grape tomatoes work too.
- Fresh mozzarella balls (8–12 ounces): Creamy and mild; use bocconcini or ciliegine. In a pinch, cube a block of fresh mozzarella.
- Fresh basil leaves (1 small bunch): Adds that signature caprese flavor; choose smaller leaves when you can.
- Balsamic glaze (2–4 tablespoons): Sweet, tangy finish; use store-bought or reduce balsamic vinegar at home.
- Extra-virgin olive oil (1–2 tablespoons): Makes everything taste richer and helps the seasoning stick.
- Salt and black pepper: A little salt wakes up the tomatoes; pepper adds gentle bite.
- Optional add-ins: A dab of pesto, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a tiny piece of prosciutto for a heartier bite.
How to Make Caprese Skewers
- 1. Rinse and dry the tomatoes. Pat them dry so the skewers don’t slide around. If your tomatoes are extra large, you can halve them.
- 2. Prep the basil. Tear large basil leaves in half, or fold them so they tuck neatly between the tomato and mozzarella. Folding helps keep the basil from sticking out and wilting.
- 3. Thread the skewers. Slide on a tomato, then basil, then mozzarella. If you’re using longer skewers, repeat the pattern (tomato–basil–mozzarella) once more.
- 4. Arrange and season. Place the caprese skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle lightly with salt and black pepper. Trust me—don’t skip the salt; it makes the tomatoes taste sweeter.
- 5. Finish with balsamic glaze. Right before serving, drizzle balsamic glaze over the skewers. If it looks too thick to drizzle, warm it for a few seconds so it flows smoothly.
- 6. Serve right away. Caprese skewers taste best fresh and cool. If you’re holding them for later, wait to add the glaze until the last minute.
Tips for Perfect Caprese Skewers
- Use small, firm tomatoes: Soft tomatoes can split and slide off the skewer.
- Chill the mozzarella: Cold mozzarella is easier to handle and keeps the skewers neat.
- Season at the end: Salt draws out tomato juices, so do it close to serving time.
- Drizzle last: Balsamic glaze can stain the basil and make it look darker if it sits too long.
- Keep them cold: If you’re serving outdoors, set the platter over a tray of ice.
Variations & Substitutions
- Add pesto: Put a tiny smear of pesto on the mozzarella side for big flavor.
- Make it spicy: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes or add a hot honey drizzle.
- Try marinated mozzarella: Extra flavor with zero effort.
- Swap the basil: Baby arugula works in a pinch, but basil is the classic.
- Make it heartier: Add a folded piece of prosciutto or salami between layers.
- Make it kid-friendly: Skip the pepper and let kids dip in glaze instead.
Storing & Reheating
Caprese skewers are best the day you make them. If you need to prep ahead, assemble them (without glaze), cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add olive oil, salt, pepper, and balsamic glaze right before serving so everything stays fresh.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Add to a snack board with crackers, olives, and sliced fruit.
- Serve with grilled chicken pieces or shrimp for a light dinner.
- Pair with a simple pasta salad for a potluck spread.
- Offer extra balsamic glaze on the side for dipping.
- Set out with sparkling water or lemonade for a refreshing party combo.
Reader Review: “Made these caprese skewers for game night and the platter disappeared in 5 minutes. The balsamic drizzle is everything!”
If you try these caprese skewers, leave a rating and a comment! And tell me—are you team extra balsamic glaze or team pesto drizzle?