Today I am continuing my series of holiday appetizers. Last week, I gave you a yummy recipe for Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus with a Creamy Horseradish Mustard Dip. This week, I’m sharing these beautiful Caprese Skewers that are marinated in a simple Basil Vinaigrette.
Do you have a go-to happy hour appetizer that you like to make and take to parties? If I had to pick a recipe that I turn to time and time again, this would be the one. Caprese Skewers with homemade Basil Vinaigrette are simple to make and they are always a hit with my guests. Fresh basil and cherry tomatoes give this dish a light feel. Mozzarella cubes provide the perfect bit of richness. Then, when you add the basil vinaigrette, you get the perfect punch of bright flavor.
I do love a true Caprese Salad made up of tomato slices, fresh mozzarella, and basil, all drizzled with good olive oil. But doing this version makes it easy for guests to pick up their own little salad on a stick. Who doesn’t love food on a stick? If you are truly wanting to stick close to the Italian version of the salad, you can find mini-mozzarella balls (bocconcini) in most groceries. Then you can leave off the vinaigrette and just drizzle the skewers with olive oil.
The method for this plate of beautiful goodness is to marinate the tomatoes and mozzarella in the vinaigrette for at least 30 minutes. Then thread a tomato, a basil leaf, and a mozzarella cube onto each skewer. These can be served immediately, but they also hold up well for a day or two in the refrigerator.
I like to present these on a platter garnished with a little bit of fresh basil. I also think it’s fun to decorate the skewers with a little washi tape flag. Stick around this week for another fun classic cocktail that would go great with these Caprese Skewers.
Calories
Fat
Carbs
Protein
Save RecipeIngredients
- 24 cherry tomatoes
- 24 cubes of mozzarella
- 24 good-size fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup white balsamic vinegar
- 1/8 cup lemon juice
- ½ tsp of mustard
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves
- ¾ cup olive oil
- 24 wooden skewers or toothpicks
Instructions
- Make Basil Vinaigrette: In the bowl of a food processor, combine balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, mustard, salt, pepper and ½ cup of basil leaves. Pulse until leaves are finely chopped. While processor is running, drizzle in olive oil.
- In a mixing bowl, combine tomatoes and mozzarella cubes. Pour in about half of the vinaigrette. Reserve the rest for future use. Toss tomatoes and mozzarella in the dressing. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes.
- Slide a tomato, a basil leaf and a cube of cheese on each skewer. Serve chilled or at room temp.
