Tomato Basil Mozzarella Skewers Recipe

The Perfect Tomato Basil Mozzarella Skewers Recipe for Summer Fun

Vibrant tomato basil mozzarella skewers dance with Mediterranean charm, offering a delightful culinary experience.

Small bites packed with intense flavor tell a story of fresh ingredients and artful combinations.

Each carefully crafted skewer redefines simple components into an elegant appetizer that sparks conversation.

Bright colors and complementary textures create a visual and gustatory symphony that awakens the senses.

These petite treats balance richness with brightness, showcasing how minimal ingredients can produce maximum impact.

Seasonal and versatile, these skewers work perfectly for casual gatherings or sophisticated events.

Prepare to elevate your appetizer game with this irresistible Mediterranean-inspired delight.

Tomato Basil Mozzarella Skewers: A Fresh and Flavorful Appetizer

  • Effortless Appetizer Perfection: These skewers deliver restaurant-quality elegance with minimal kitchen effort, making them ideal for impressing guests without spending hours cooking.
  • Burst of Fresh Flavors: Combining ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, creamy mozzarella, and tangy balsamic glaze creates a vibrant taste explosion that dances across your palate with each bite.
  • Quick Summer Party Favorite: Ready in just minutes, these colorful skewers are perfect for outdoor gatherings, poolside events, or casual entertaining where presentation and taste matter most.
  • Healthy Bite-Sized Delight: Packed with nutrients, low in calories, and offering a balanced mix of proteins and fresh ingredients, these skewers provide a guilt-free snack that feels indulgent without being heavy.

Key Ingredients for Tomato Basil Mozzarella Skewers

  • Tomatoes: Sweet and ripe cherry or grape tomatoes add vibrant color and fresh flavor to the skewers.
  • Mozzarella Balls: Soft, creamy fresh mozzarella provides a delicate cheese element with a smooth texture.
  • Fresh Basil: Aromatic herb that brings a bright, peppery note and classic Italian herb flavor.
  • Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: High-quality oil that adds richness and helps bind the flavors together.
  • Balsamic Glaze: Sweet and tangy reduction that enhances the overall taste profile of the skewers.
  • Kosher Salt: Flaky salt that helps highlight and balance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
  • Black Pepper: Freshly ground pepper adds a subtle heat and depth to the appetizer.
  • Wooden Skewers: Small 4-inch skewers perfect for creating bite-sized appetizer portions and easy handling.

How to Make Delicious Tomato Basil Mozzarella Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Skewers

Carefully thread the ingredients onto 16 to 18 (4-inch) skewers in this order:
  • 1 cherry tomato
  • 1 fresh basil leaf (fold if large)
  • 1 mozzarella ball
  • Another basil leaf
  • Another cherry tomato

Step 2: Create a Beautiful Presentation

Gently arrange the completed skewers on a serving platter, ensuring they look neat and appealing.

Step 3: Add Finishing Touches

Lightly drizzle the skewers with:
  • Extra-virgin olive oil
  • Balsamic glaze

Sprinkle with a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the skewers immediately and watch your guests delight in these quick, colorful, and delicious appetizers. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a quick snack!

Tips for Perfect Tomato Basil Mozzarella Skewers

  • Maximize Flavor Freshness: Choose ripe, in-season cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves for the most vibrant and intense taste.
  • Perfect Skewer Balance: Fold larger basil leaves gently to ensure even sizing and a neat, compact presentation on each skewer.
  • Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate skewers for 15-20 minutes before serving to enhance the mozzarella's firmness and blend the flavors.
  • Oil and Glaze Technique: Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze just before serving to prevent soggy skewers and maintain crisp textures.
  • Salt Timing Trick: Sprinkle kosher salt moments before serving to prevent moisture release from tomatoes and keep skewers looking pristine.

How to Keep Your Tomato Basil Mozzarella Skewers Fresh

  • Refrigeration: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container, carefully layering them to prevent crushing. Place parchment paper between layers for added protection and keep refrigerated for up to 2 days.
  • Reheating: Gently warm skewers in a preheated oven at 300°F for 3-5 minutes to maintain the fresh texture of mozzarella and basil. Avoid microwaving, which can make ingredients soggy and compromise the delicate flavors.
  • Serving Tip: For best taste, consume skewers at room temperature. Remove from refrigerator 15-20 minutes before serving to allow ingredients to soften and flavors to develop, ensuring a delightful appetizer experience.

Best Pairings for Tomato Basil Mozzarella Skewers

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Enhance the fresh, light flavors of these skewers with a chilled sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio, which complement the tomato and mozzarella's delicate taste.
  • Match with Sparkling Prosecco: The bubbly, refreshing nature of prosecco cuts through the creamy mozzarella and brightens the herbal basil notes, creating a delightful palate experience.
  • Serve with Crusty Bread: Complement the skewers with a rustic baguette or ciabatta to soak up the olive oil and balsamic glaze, adding texture and depth to each bite.
  • Balance with Light Salad: Create a perfect appetizer spread by adding a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, which provides a peppery contrast to the sweet tomatoes and creamy cheese.

Fun Variations on Tomato Basil Mozzarella Skewers

  • Mediterranean Fusion: Add marinated artichoke hearts and kalamata olives for a Greek-inspired flavor profile that enhances the classic skewer combination.
  • Spicy Caprese Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes and add a thin slice of salami between mozzarella and tomato to introduce a zesty, savory element that elevates the traditional recipe.
  • Pesto Upgraded Skewers: Replace balsamic glaze with homemade basil pesto drizzled over the skewers, creating a more herbaceous and rich taste experience that highlights fresh ingredients.
  • Grilled Summer Version: Lightly char the skewers on a hot grill for 1-2 minutes to caramelize tomatoes and mozzarella, bringing out deeper, smoky undertones that complement the fresh basil.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Tomato Basil Mozzarella Skewers Recipe

Tomato Basil Mozzarella Skewers Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 16 1x

Description

Mediterranean flavors dance on these elegant skewers, combining ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves. Simple ingredients create a delightful appetizer that you’ll savor with friends during summer gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein and Vegetable Ingredients:

  • 1 (12-ounce) container miniature cherry-sized fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine)
  • 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
  • 1 bunch fresh basil leaves (about 36 leaves)

Skewers and Preparation Tools:

  • 16 to 18 (4-inch) wooden skewers

Seasoning and Finishing Ingredients:

  • Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
  • Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Carefully fold large basil leaves in half to create compact layers, ensuring even distribution of flavors across each skewer.
  2. Carefully pierce wooden skewers (4-inch length) with alternating ingredients: start with a ripe cherry tomato, followed by a folded basil leaf, then a smooth mozzarella ball, another basil leaf, and conclude with a second cherry tomato.
  3. Symmetrically arrange the prepared skewers on an elegant serving platter, creating an appealing visual presentation.
  4. Delicately drizzle extra-virgin olive oil (or 30 milliliters) across the assembled skewers, ensuring light and even coverage.
  5. Elegantly add a complementary balsamic glaze (or 15 milliliters), allowing the rich, sweet reduction to enhance the ingredients’ natural flavors.
  6. Finish by sprinkling kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to elevate the taste profile and add a subtle seasoning layer.

Notes

  • Prep these colorful skewers up to 2 hours before serving, keeping them chilled in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
  • Choose ripe, firm cherry tomatoes for the best burst of flavor and visual appeal.
  • Fold larger basil leaves gently to ensure they fit neatly between mozzarella and tomatoes without tearing.
  • Use wooden skewers soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning if grilling or broiling.
  • Invest in high-quality balsamic glaze and extra-virgin olive oil to elevate the simple ingredients with rich, complex flavors.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: None
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 16
  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
Mary Ellen

Mary Ellen

Founder, Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Artisanal Bread Making
  • Exquisite Pastry Craftsmanship
  • Creative Dessert Presentation
  • Flavor Profile Development
  • Menu Concept Innovation.

Education

Savannah Technical College

  • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts
  • Focus: A specialized program focusing on baking and pastry fundamentals, including bread making, cake decorating, and advanced pastry techniques. Developed creative presentation skills and an understanding of ingredient functions through lab-based practice.

Mary Ellen is the heart and soul of thatsmyhome.com. As the founder, pastry chef, and recipe developer, she refined her skills at Savannah Technical College with an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts. 

Mary blends classic techniques with modern twists to make artisanal breads, beautifully crafted pastries, and desserts full of unique flavor. Her passion is evident in every recipe, and she enjoys sharing her expertise through hands-on pastry workshops and insightful articles in local culinary magazines.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star