Pin It A festive and colorful appetizer featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves arranged in a stunning tree shape—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe has become my go-to for holiday parties because it's simple yet impresses everyone with its vibrant look and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
- Produce: 20 red cherry tomatoes 20 green grape tomatoes (or green cherry tomatoes) 20 fresh basil leaves
- Dairy: 20 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- Pantry: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional) Sea salt, to taste Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Rinse and dry the tomatoes and basil leaves. Pat the mozzarella balls dry with paper towels.
- Step 2:
- On each skewer, thread one red cherry tomato, one mini mozzarella ball, one green grape tomato, and one basil leaf. Alternate the order for visual variety if desired.
- Step 3:
- Arrange the finished skewers on a large serving platter or board in the shape of a Christmas tree, starting at the bottom and stacking rows upward in a triangle.
- Step 4:
- Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the skewers. Sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper.
- Step 5:
- (Optional) Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor and festive shine.
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Pin It Gathering around this Caprese skewer tree always brings smiles to my family during the holidays.
Required Tools
Small skewers or toothpicks Large serving platter or board Paper towels Small bowl (for olive oil)
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (mozzarella) Gluten-free Always verify mozzarella ingredients for possible additives or allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories: 50 Total Fat: 3.5 g Carbohydrates: 1.5 g Protein: 2.5 g per skewer
Pin It 
This Caprese skewer tree is a delightful addition to any holiday table and can be customized with your favorite colors and flavors.
Recipe FAQs
- → What tomatoes work best for these skewers?
Red cherry tomatoes and green grape or cherry tomatoes provide vibrant color and juicy texture, perfect for these skewers.
- → Can I substitute basil with other herbs?
Yes, baby spinach or fresh mint can be used as alternatives to basil, offering a different but complementary flavor.
- → Is it necessary to use balsamic glaze?
Balsamic glaze is optional but adds a sweet tangy finish that enhances the overall flavor and visual appeal.
- → How should the skewers be arranged for serving?
Arrange the skewers upright in a triangular, tree-like shape on a large serving board to create a festive display.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the skewers and refrigerate them for up to 2 hours before serving to keep them fresh.