Picnic Caprese Skewers (Printable)

Vibrant cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and basil combined with a sweet balsamic glaze.

# Ingredient List:

→ Skewers

01 - 24 cherry tomatoes
02 - 24 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
03 - 24 fresh basil leaves
04 - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
05 - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
06 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Balsamic Drizzle

07 - 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
08 - 1 tablespoon honey

# Steps:

01 - In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is reduced by half and thickened. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
02 - On each 6-inch cocktail skewer, thread one cherry tomato, one mozzarella ball, and one basil leaf in sequence. Repeat this pattern until the skewer is filled, finishing with a tomato at the end.
03 - Arrange the assembled skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
04 - Just before serving, lightly drizzle the cooled balsamic reduction over the skewers, or serve it on the side for dipping.

# Tips from the Pros:

01 -
  • They require almost no cooking skills, just assembly and a tiny bit of patience with the balsamic reduction.
  • You can make them an hour ahead and they actually taste better as the flavors meld together on the platter.
  • Everyone eats them in two bites, which somehow makes them feel fancier than they are.
02 -
  • The balsamic reduction will thicken more as it cools, so don't let it cook too long or you'll end up with something that tastes burnt rather than caramelized.
  • If your mozzarella balls are cold from the fridge, take them out fifteen minutes before assembling so they're easier to thread and taste better.
03 -
  • If your balsamic reduction gets too thick while cooling, add a tiny splash of vinegar to loosen it back up.
  • Wooden skewers are prettier on a platter than plastic, and they feel more intentional when someone picks one up.
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