These Candy Cane Caprese Skewers are a fun twist on a classic! With juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, they look as festive as they taste.
Just imagine serving these at a holiday party – they’ll be the star of the show! I love drizzling a bit of balsamic glaze on top for that extra zing. Yummy and easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: These provide juicy sweetness. You can swap them with grape tomatoes if you can’t find cherries, or even use chopped heirloom tomatoes for a special pop of color!
Fresh Mozzarella Balls: Bocconcini are great, but you can also use other cheeses like feta or cubed cheddar for a different flavor. I love the creaminess of mozzarella, but feta adds a nice tang!
Fresh Basil Leaves: Basil is key for a fresh taste, but if you’re lacking it, you can use arugula or spinach leaves. Dried basil works too, but it’s not quite as vibrant.
Balsamic Glaze: Although optional, it adds a sweet and tangy flavor. If you don’t have it, a dash of balsamic vinegar will do, just make sure to use less since it’s more liquidy.
How Do You Assemble Skewers Without Making a Mess?
Assembling skewers can be tricky, but here are some tips to keep it neat and easy!
- Start by washing your veggies to remove any dirt. Pat dry to avoid sogginess.
- Use toothpicks for smaller bites or wooden skewers for larger ones.
- When threading, alternate ingredients to keep everything balanced and easy to grab.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewer; leave a bit of space to avoid squishing ingredients.
These tips will help your skewers stay beautiful and not fall apart, making serving a breeze!
How to Make Candy Cane Caprese Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 package fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), about 8 oz
- Fresh basil leaves (approx. 16 leaves)
- 1-2 candy cane shaped mozzarella sticks (for garnish and presentation)
- Wooden skewers or toothpicks
- Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional garnish)
- Fresh cranberries or small red berries (optional garnish)
Time Needed:
This delightful dish takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare. You can chill it while you finish getting ready for your party. It’s a quick and festive appetizer that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Produce:
Start by rinsing the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves gently under cold water. After rinsing, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture—this will help your skewers stay fresh!
2. Drain the Mozzarella:
Next, take the mozzarella balls out of their packaging. Drain any liquid and pat them dry with paper towels to keep everything from getting too soggy.
3. Assemble the Skewers:
Grab a wooden skewer or toothpick. Thread on a cherry tomato first, followed by a mozzarella ball, and then a fresh basil leaf. Repeat this layering until you have 3-4 sets (tomato, mozzarella, and basil) on the skewer, finishing with a tomato or mozzarella ball for that candy cane look!
4. Arrange the Skewers:
Place the finished skewers on a slate or pretty serving platter, arranging them in a curvy shape to mimic a candy cane. If you have any leftover candy cane shaped mozzarella sticks, place them next to the skewers for a fun, festive touch!
5. Drizzle and Season:
Lightly drizzle the skewers with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze if you choose to use it. Sprinkle a little salt and freshly ground black pepper over the top to enhance the flavors.
6. Garnish and Serve:
For extra flair, you can garnish the platter with fresh rosemary sprigs and scatter some fresh cranberries around. This not only looks great but adds a lovely holiday feel! Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving. Enjoy your beautiful and delicious Candy Cane Caprese Skewers!
This colorful and fresh appetizer is perfect for holiday gatherings, delivering classic Caprese flavors with an eye-catching, candy cane-inspired presentation. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is traditional, you can try feta for a tangy twist, or even cubed cheddar for a sharper flavor. Just make sure the cheese can be skewered easily.
How Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the skewers up to a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze just before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re best eaten within 1-2 days for optimal freshness. Just note that the tomatoes and basil may lose their crispness over time.
Can I Use Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative by adding bell pepper strips, cucumber slices, or even grilled zucchini for variety. Just keep in mind the cooking or assembly method so everything skews easily!