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Easy Patriotic Caprese Skewers Recipe with Perfect Balsamic Glaze for Summer Parties

patriotic caprese skewers - featured image

A quick and festive recipe featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil on skewers, drizzled with a homemade balsamic glaze. Perfect for summer parties and easy to assemble in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 cherry tomatoes, washed and dried
  • 20 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
  • 20 fresh basil leaves, whole and unblemished
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • About 20 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the balsamic glaze: Pour 1/2 cup (120 ml) of balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons (25 g) of granulated sugar. Stir gently until sugar dissolves. Let the mixture simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and whisk in 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of extra virgin olive oil for silkiness if using. Set aside to cool.
  2. Prep your ingredients: Drain the mozzarella balls well, patting dry if needed. Rinse and dry the cherry tomatoes. Gently wash the basil leaves and pat dry. Season the mozzarella balls lightly with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper in a mixing bowl.
  3. Assemble the skewers: Take a wooden skewer and thread one cherry tomato first, then a basil leaf folded if large, followed by a mozzarella ball. Repeat until all ingredients are used (one of each per skewer).
  4. Plate and finish: Arrange the skewers neatly on a serving platter. Drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze generously over the skewers right before serving. Optionally, sprinkle extra basil leaves or cracked black pepper for presentation.

Notes

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning if grilling. Assemble skewers close to serving time to avoid sogginess. The balsamic glaze can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. For dairy-free, substitute mozzarella with marinated tofu or vegan mozzarella. For a lower sugar glaze, reduce sugar or use honey.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, balsamic glaze, summer party recipe, easy appetizer, patriotic skewers, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil