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Easy Red White Blue Caprese Skewers Recipe Perfect for Summer Parties

red white blue caprese skewers - featured image

These Easy Red White Blue Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze are a quick, colorful, and fresh appetizer perfect for summer parties and casual gatherings. Featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a tangy balsamic glaze, they offer a festive and fuss-free bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pint (approx. 300g) cherry tomatoes, firm and ripe
  • 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained well
  • About 20 medium-sized fresh basil leaves, whole and unblemished
  • ¼ cup (60ml) balsamic glaze, store-bought or homemade
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (optional)
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt or kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • About 20 wooden skewers or toothpicks, soaked in water for 10 minutes if grilling

Instructions

  1. Rinse the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves under cold water. Pat dry gently with a kitchen towel to avoid sogginess. Drain the mozzarella balls well on paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. Take one skewer or toothpick. Start with a cherry tomato, then fold a basil leaf in half and thread it next, followed by a mozzarella ball. Repeat this pattern until all ingredients are used, keeping colors alternating for a festive red-white-blue look.
  3. Place the assembled skewers on your serving platter. Lightly sprinkle with flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the skewers for added richness (optional).
  4. Using a spoon or small brush, drizzle the balsamic glaze evenly over the skewers. If the glaze is too thick, thin it slightly with water before drizzling.
  5. Let the skewers sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to marry. If making ahead, wait to add the balsamic glaze until right before serving.

Notes

Soak wooden skewers in water for 10 minutes if grilling to prevent burning. Pat dry tomatoes and mozzarella well to avoid soggy skewers. Assemble skewers close to serving time for freshest basil. Balsamic glaze can be homemade by reducing balsamic vinegar with honey or sugar. For a smoky twist, grill skewers briefly (20-30 seconds per side) but watch carefully to avoid melting mozzarella. Store leftovers without glaze in refrigerator up to 24 hours; add glaze before serving again.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, summer appetizer, easy party food, balsamic glaze, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, patriotic recipe