There’s something about a platter of mini caprese skewers that instantly brightens a table. Picture glossy cherry tomatoes, pearls of creamy mozzarella, and ribbons of fresh basil—red, white, and green shining like little jewels.
A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a sweet, tangy aroma that mingles with the peppery scent of basil, promising a revitalizing bite every time.
This is a light, no-cook snack or appetizer that comes together in about 15 minutes, perfect for busy hosts, beginners, and anyone who loves fresh, simple flavors.
I still remember a hectic weekday evening when friends dropped by unannounced. The fridge was nearly bare, but I’d tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
In minutes, those basic ingredients turned into cheerful little skewers that made the visit feel intentional and special.
These mini caprese skewers shine at easy entertaining, potlucks, or last-minute gatherings. Ready to bring this dish to life?
Why You’ll Love It
- Delivers big classic Caprese flavor in perfectly bite-sized form
- Assembles in minutes with just a handful of fresh ingredients
- Impresses guests while staying light, fresh, and not too filling
- Travels well for potlucks, picnics, and make-ahead entertaining
- Easily customizable with colorful tomatoes or extra drizzle to taste
Ingredients
- 24 pieces cherry tomatoes, whole — use ripe but still firm for best texture
- 24 pieces mini fresh mozzarella balls, drained — look for soft, milky bocconcini or ciliegine
- 24 leaves fresh basil, small — pick unbruised, bright green leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil — a fruity, high‑quality oil makes a big difference
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze — choose a thick, syrupy glaze for easy drizzling
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt — season the mozzarella lightly but evenly
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper — grind just before using for best flavor
Step-by-Step Method
Rinse the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves under cool water. Pat them completely dry with a clean towel so excess moisture doesn’t dilute the flavors.
Drain the mini mozzarella balls well, removing as much liquid as possible. Place the drained mozzarella in a small mixing bowl, ready for seasoning and easy access while you assemble the skewers.
Season the Mozzarella
Add the extra-virgin olive oil to the bowl with the mozzarella balls. Sprinkle in the kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently with a spoon or your hands to evenly coat each piece without breaking them. Let the mozzarella sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors while you organize your skewers and platter.
Build the Skewers
Thread one cherry tomato onto a small wooden skewer or toothpick. Fold a basil leaf in half for a neat look and slide it on next. Finish by adding one marinated mozzarella ball. Repeat this process with the remaining ingredients, arranging finished skewers neatly on a serving platter as you work, keeping the pattern consistent for an attractive presentation.
Finish & Serve
Arrange all skewers in a single, slightly overlapping layer on the platter. Drizzle the balsamic glaze lightly over the top just before serving so everything stays glossy, not soggy. If desired, add a tiny extra pinch of salt on top. Serve immediately, or briefly chill covered and drizzle the glaze right at the table for best texture.
Ingredient Swaps
- Use grape tomatoes if cherry tomatoes aren’t available.
- Swap mini mozzarella balls with cubed block mozzarella (or a budget-friendly mild white cheese like provolone).
- For dairy-free/vegan: replace mozzarella with marinated firm tofu cubes or a vegan mozzarella alternative.
- If you don’t have balsamic glaze, reduce regular balsamic vinegar on the stove or simply drizzle balsamic vinegar mixed with a pinch of sugar or honey.
You Must Know
– Scale – For a crowd, plan on 3–4 skewers per person for a light appetizer; multiply all ingredients by that factor and organize in batches of 24 skewers each so seasoning and assembly stay consistent.
Serving Tips
- Arrange skewers in concentric circles on a white platter for vibrant color contrast.
- Serve with a small bowl of extra balsamic glaze for optional dipping.
- Pair alongside a crisp Prosecco or Sauvignon Blanc for a revitalizing appetizer course.
- Alternate red and yellow cherry tomatoes for a colorful, summery presentation.
- Nestle skewers over a bed of arugula, then serve leftover greens as a simple salad.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Mini caprese skewers keep well in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Assemble them, cover tightly, and refrigerate; add balsamic glaze just before serving for the best look and flavor.
They don’t freeze well—freezing ruins the texture of tomatoes and mozzarella—so enjoy them fresh or within a day.
Reheating
Serve mini Caprese skewers cold or at room temperature; reheating isn’t recommended.
If slightly chilled, let them warm gently on the counter—avoid microwave, oven, or stovetop to preserve texture.
Caprese in Italian Gatherings
Although it’s wonderfully simple, Caprese holds a special place at Italian gatherings as a quiet showpiece of the table—bright, fresh, and inviting.
When I bring out a platter of mini Caprese skewers, I’m not just offering a snack; I’m inviting everyone to slow down, talk, and reach for one more bite.
To help you weave them naturally into your own get-togethers, I like to think of Caprese in four little rituals:
- Passing a tray with drinks to welcome guests as they arrive.
- Setting them among antipasti so everyone can graze and mingle.
- Revitalizing the platter midway, signaling that no one should rush.
- Ending with empty sticks and full, happy conversation around the table.
Final Thoughts
Give these Mini Caprese Skewers a try for your next gathering—they’re quick to make, easy to serve, and always a hit.
Feel free to play with colorful tomatoes, extra herbs, or a bit more balsamic to make them your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Mini Caprese Skewers Vegan or Dairy-Free?
You can absolutely make them dairy-free. I’d swap mozzarella with marinated vegan mozzarella or firm tofu, keep the juicy tomatoes and basil, then drizzle extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze for that cozy, bright, satisfying bite.
How Many Skewers Should I Plan per Person for a Party?
Plan 3–4 skewers per person; for hungrier guests or light appetizers only, I’d bump it to 5–6. Picture a small, colorful cluster on each plate—enough for lingering nibbles without crowding the table.
Are Mini Caprese Skewers Safe to Sit Out at Room Temperature?
They’re safe at room temperature for about 2 hours; after that, I’d chill or discard them. I’d keep them on a cool platter, refresh from the fridge, and drizzle balsamic right before you serve.
Can I Scale This Recipe for Very Large Events or Catering?
Yes, you can scale it easily. I’d batch-marinate mozzarella, then assemble skewers close to serving. I’ll keep trays chilled, rotate small platters out, and prepare extra garnish so everything stays fresh, glossy, and abundant.
What Wines or Drinks Pair Best With Mini Caprese Skewers?
I’d pour crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc; their citrus cuts the richness beautifully. If you prefer bubbles, choose dry Prosecco. For nonalcoholic, I’d serve sparkling water with lemon or basil-infused lemonade alongside.
Mini Caprese Skewers
Equipment
- 1 small cutting board
- 1 sharp knife
- 24 small wooden skewers or toothpicks
- 1 Small mixing bowl
- 1 serving platter
Ingredients
- 24 piece cherry tomatoes whole
- 24 piece mini fresh mozzarella balls drained
- 24 leaves fresh basil small
- 2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Rinse and pat dry the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves.
- Drain the mini mozzarella balls and place them in a small mixing bowl.
- Add the olive oil, salt, and black pepper to the mozzarella and gently toss to coat.
- Thread one cherry tomato onto a skewer or toothpick.
- Fold one basil leaf in half and slide it onto the skewer next to the tomato.
- Add one marinated mozzarella ball to the skewer to complete the first mini caprese.
- Repeat threading tomato, basil, and mozzarella on the remaining skewers.
- Arrange all finished skewers neatly on a serving platter.
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze lightly over the skewers just before serving.
Notes
Cynthia Weatherford is a seasoned chef and culinary enthusiast who serves as the Recipe creator of Somonday. With decades of experience in the kitchen and a passion for exploring diverse cuisines, Cynthia brings a blend of creativity and technique to every dish. Known for transforming simple ingredients into show-stopping meals, Cynthia believes that cooking is an art form anyone can master. Dedicated to inspiring home cooks, Cynthia shares approachable recipes, pro tips, and culinary wisdom to make every meal memorable.
