Caprese Salad Skewers Recipe Easy Homemade with Fresh Basil Oil
A fresh and vibrant twist on the classic caprese salad, these skewers combine creamy mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a punch of herby fresh basil oil for an easy, elegant appetizer perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 skewers 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (preferably sweet varieties like Sungold or heirloom)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine size)
- Fresh basil leaves (bright green, tender)
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil (for basil oil)
- 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves (for basil oil)
- 1 garlic clove, peeled (for basil oil)
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
- Wooden or bamboo skewers, 6-inch length
Instructions
- Prepare the Fresh Basil Oil: Rinse and dry about 1 cup of fresh basil leaves. In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, ½ cup extra virgin olive oil, one peeled garlic clove, and a pinch of sea salt. Blend until smooth and vibrant green, about 30 seconds. Add more olive oil if too thick. Set aside.
- Prep the Tomatoes and Mozzarella: Wash and halve 1 pint of cherry tomatoes. Drain 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls and pat dry with paper towels. Tear fresh basil leaves into bite-sized pieces if large.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread one half of a cherry tomato, a mozzarella ball, a basil leaf (folded if large), and the other half of the tomato onto a 6-inch skewer. Repeat for about 12 skewers.
- Season and Dress: Arrange skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with fresh basil oil. Sprinkle sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Optionally, drizzle balsamic glaze.
- Serve Immediately or Chill: Enjoy fresh or cover and refrigerate up to 2 hours. Bring to room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.
Notes
Pat mozzarella dry to avoid soggy skewers. Assemble just before serving to keep ingredients fresh. Basil oil can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge. For less garlic flavor, reduce or omit garlic clove. Use fresh, bright basil leaves for best flavor and color. If making ahead, keep basil oil separate and drizzle before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 75
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 6.5
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 1.5
- Fiber: 0.3
- Protein: 4.5
Keywords: Caprese salad, skewers, fresh basil oil, appetizer, easy recipe, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, party food, vegetarian