Mini Caprese Appetizer Bites Recipe
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This easy caprese appetizer will get the job done if you want something fresh and tasty that everyone will notice. Juicy cherry tomatoes, basil, and creamy mozzarella come together on mini skewers, drizzled with balsamic glaze and finished off with cracked pepper. It’s everything delicious about Caprese salad, served up in handy, snack-sized portions.
I often lean on quick appetizers like cheesy pickle chips or tuna salad cucumber bites, but lately, these caprese appetizer skewers have become my new favorite. They’re simple yet impressive, perfect as a starter, side dish for Italian dinners, or even packed for a picnic. With no cooking required, they’re also great for a quick refreshing snack anytime.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Prep-friendly: Easily put these together early and chill until you’re ready, for stress-free serving later.
- Ready in minutes: Just stack, drizzle, and you’re done in under 10 minutes.
- Make it your own: Easily customize by adding prosciutto, using different seasonings, or trying new herbs.
- Salad on a stick: Take the traditional Caprese salad and turn it into easy-to-eat appetizer skewers.
- Light and easy: Enjoy a flavorful appetizer without feeling too full before dinner.
- Classic fresh taste: Juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil blend into tasty little bites you’ll love.
How to Make Caprese Appetizer
These caprese appetizers might look fancy, but they’resuper simple and packed with fresh flavor. Just slide mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil onto skewers, add your glaze and seasonings, and they’re ready to serve. It’s the ideal appetizer for busy schedules or last-minute get-togethers!
For a complete printable recipe card with ingredients, measurements, and easy steps, scroll down to the bottom of this post.
Ingredients You Need
- Cherry tomatoes: Add a pop of sweetness and tang that balances the rich mozzarella. For a colorful touch, try using a mix of red, yellow, and orange varieties.
- Mozzarella pearls: Soft and creamy, these bite-sized cheese balls add a rich, mild flavor that balances the bright tomatoes and fresh basil. If you can’t find pearls, ciliegine or bocconcini (cut in half) are great alternatives, or use cubed fresh mozzarella.
- Basil leaves: This fresh, fragrant herb adds a hint of peppery flavor that pairs perfectly with the tomatoes and cheese.
- Balsamic glaze: This rich, syrupy drizzle adds just the right amount of tangy sweetness to boost the overall flavor.
- Ground black pepper: A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper gives the skewers a warm, slightly spicy kick.
Step-By-Step Instructions
In just 10 minutes, you can put together a delicious caprese appetizer with only 5 ingredients. Start by layering the ingredients as shown, and once you’ve mastered the basics, feel free to add your own creative touch.
Step 1: Assemble
Start by adding two mozzarella pearls to each skewer. Follow with a basil leaf, folding it in half if it’s large. Next, add a cherry tomato, then another basil leaf. Finish by adding two more mozzarella pearls on top.
Repeat this process until all your ingredients are used up.
Step 2: Add the final touches
Give your skewers a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze, then sprinkle some freshly cracked black pepper on top for extra flavor. Serve and enjoy!
Substitutions
If you’re craving caprese appetizer but are missing an ingredient, no worries! There are plenty of simple swaps that work just as well. Feel free to get creative now, but be sure to try the classic combo of mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil when you get the chance.
- Cherry tomatoes: If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes make a great alternative. Just be sure they’re ripe for the perfect flavor.
- Mozzarella pearls: Marinated mozzarella balls add extra flavor with garlic, herbs, or olive oil. If you’re out of mozzarella, try Monterey Jack, fontina, feta, goat cheese, ricotta, provolone, or cheddar for a unique twist.
- Basil leaves: Baby arugula can add a peppery bite, while fresh mint gives a cool, refreshing flavor.
- Balsamic glaze: You can simmer balsamic vinegar until it thickens, or mix balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey for a quick alternative.
- Ground black pepper: For a different flavor kick, try Italian seasoning, freshly cracked black pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Expert Tips
- Remove excess tomato juice: Using larger tomatoes? Be sure to squeeze out some of the juice and seeds to avoid your platter becoming too watery.
- Choose fresh ingredients: Since caprese appetizers rely on simple flavors, using fresh, high-quality ingredients makes all the difference. For the best taste, make them during summer when tomatoes and basil are at their peak.
- Mix things up: While the classic combo is always a winner, don’t be afraid to add a twist. Try swapping some tomatoes for strawberries or diced melon, or use fresh mint instead of basil. Olives, artichokes, prosciutto, or salami are also great add-ins.
- Presentation matters: Arrange your caprese appetizer on a serving platter, drizzle with extra balsamic glaze, and add fresh basil or microgreens for a colorful, eye-catching display.
- Serve chilled: For a cool and refreshing bite, place your skewers in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. It’s an easy trick that makes the flavors pop even more.
How to Store This Recipe
For the best flavor, caprese appetizers are best served fresh or within a few hours. If making them ahead, assemble the skewers up to 4 hours before serving, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. To keep them tasting their best, wait until just before serving to drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with black pepper.
What to Serve with Caprese Appetizer
Caprese appetizers are a great choice for any spread and look fantastic alongside charcuterie favorites like meats, cheeses, crackers, and fresh fruit. They also pair well with simple appetizers such as goat cheese stuffed dates or pineapple and bacon bites. For a perfect drink pairing, try serving them with a crisp Italian wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to bring out their fresh flavors.
More Appetizer Recipes To Try
Fresh and Easy Caprese Appetizer Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 individual cherry tomatoes
- ½ cup mozzarella pearls
- 24 leaves basil fresh
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Start by adding two mozzarella pearls to each skewer. Follow with a basil leaf, folding it in half if it’s large. Next, add a cherry tomato, then another basil leaf. Finish by adding two more mozzarella pearls on top.
- Repeat this process until all your ingredients are used up.
- Give your skewers a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze, then sprinkle some freshly cracked black pepper on top for extra flavor. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Using larger tomatoes? Be sure to squeeze out some of the juice and seeds to avoid your platter becoming too watery.
- Since caprese appetizers rely on simple flavors, using fresh, high-quality ingredients makes all the difference. For the best taste, make them during summer when tomatoes and basil are at their peak.
- While the classic combo is always a winner, don’t be afraid to add a twist. Try swapping some tomatoes for strawberries or diced melon, or use fresh mint instead of basil. Olives, artichokes, prosciutto, or salami are also great add-ins.
- Arrange your caprese appetizer on a serving platter, drizzle with extra balsamic glaze, and add fresh basil or microgreens for a colorful, eye-catching display.
- For a cool and refreshing bite, place your skewers in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. It’s an easy trick that makes the flavors pop even more.
Nutrition & Macros
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