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small single bite appetizer ideas

Caprese Skewer Bites

Prep Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Italian
Servings 20 pieces

Equipment

  • 1 Cutting board
  • 1 Chef's knife
  • 1 Small mixing bowl
  • 1 Measuring spoons set
  • 20 wooden toothpicks or mini skewers
  • 1 serving platter

Ingredients
  

  • 20 piece cherry tomatoes
  • 20 piece fresh mozzarella balls bocconcini or ciliegine; drained
  • 20 leaves fresh basil small or torn to fit
  • 2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Rinse the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
  • Drain the mozzarella balls well and pat them dry so they are not too wet.
  • In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, and black pepper and stir to mix.
  • Thread one cherry tomato onto a toothpick or mini skewer.
  • Add one basil leaf (or a piece of leaf) onto the skewer, gently folding it if needed.
  • Add one mozzarella ball to the skewer to complete the bite.
  • Repeat skewering with the remaining tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella until all 20 skewers are assembled.
  • Arrange the caprese skewers in a single layer on a serving platter.
  • Drizzle the seasoned olive oil evenly over the skewers.
  • Lightly drizzle the balsamic glaze in thin lines over the top of the skewers.
  • Let the skewers rest for about 10 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

For best results, use ripe but firm cherry tomatoes and high-quality mozzarella and olive oil, as the few ingredients really stand out in such a simple bite. If preparing ahead, you can assemble the skewers up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate, then drizzle with oil and balsamic glaze just before serving to keep them fresh-looking. You can vary the flavor by using flavored olive oil, adding a small piece of prosciutto, or sprinkling lightly with dried oregano or chili flakes for a twist. Serve them slightly cool or at room temperature, and avoid leaving them out for more than 2 hours, especially in warm weather, to maintain both texture and food safety.
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