Q1: How can I tell when the balsamic reduction is done, and what should I do if it becomes too thick?

According to Step 2, the balsamic vinegar should reduce by half and become thick and syrupy after about 8-10 minutes of simmering. The key test is that it should coat the back of a spoon when you dip it in. If your reduction becomes too thick or starts to harden as it cools, you can gently reheat it with a teaspoon of water or additional balsamic vinegar, stirring until it reaches the desired consistency. Remember that the reduction will thicken further as it cools completely, so err on the side of slightly thinner while it's still warm.

Q2: Can I substitute regular mozzarella if I can't find fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)?

Yes, you can use regular block mozzarella as a substitute for the 24 fresh mozzarella balls called for in the ingredients. Simply cut the block mozzarella into 24 cubes approximately the same size as cherry tomatoes. Make sure to pat them dry with paper towels as instructed in Step 3 to remove excess moisture. Keep in mind that fresh mozzarella balls have a softer, creamier texture that's traditional for Caprese, but block mozzarella will still taste delicious and work well structurally on the skewers.

Q3: What if I don't have small wooden skewers or toothpicks as listed in the equipment?

If you don't have the small wooden skewers or toothpicks listed in the equipment, you have several alternatives. You can use cocktail picks, small bamboo skewers (just break them to a shorter length), or even sturdy plastic appetizer picks. Another option is to simply arrange the ingredients in small stacks on your serving platter without skewers—place a tomato on the bottom, top with folded basil and mozzarella, and secure with a decorative pick through the top if desired. The skewers are primarily for presentation and easy serving, so any method that keeps the three components together will work.

Q4: Can I prepare these Caprese skewers ahead of time, and how far in advance?

Yes, according to Step 10, you can prepare these skewers ahead of time and refrigerate them covered with plastic wrap for up to 4 hours before serving. However, for the best presentation and flavor, it's recommended to add the balsamic reduction drizzle (Step 9) just before serving rather than before refrigerating, as it may run and pool on the platter. Assemble the skewers through Step 7, drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper (Step 8), then cover and refrigerate. Before serving, bring them to room temperature for 15 minutes as instructed, then add the balsamic drizzle and fresh basil garnish.

Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Drizzle

These elegant Caprese Skewers bring the beloved flavors of Italy's most iconic salad into a perfectly portable, gluten-free appetizer. Inspired by the Insalata Caprese from the Isle of Capri, this dish celebrates the simple yet sublime combination of ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves. Each skewer is a miniature masterpiece that captures the colors of the Italian flag while delivering an explosion of fresh, summery flavors in every bite.

What makes these skewers truly special is their versatility and visual appeal. The sweet acidity of cherry tomatoes pairs beautifully with the mild, milky mozzarella, while fresh basil adds an aromatic, peppery note that ties everything together. A drizzle of aged balsamic vinegar adds depth and a touch of sweetness that elevates these simple ingredients into something truly memorable. The balsamic reduction creates a glossy, syrupy finish that not only enhances the flavor but also adds restaurant-quality presentation.

Perfect for busy mornings, lunch boxes, or entertaining, these skewers require no cooking and can be assembled in minutes. They're naturally gluten-free, making them ideal for guests with dietary restrictions, and their grab-and-go format means no plates or utensils required. Whether you're packing them for a picnic, serving them at a party, or enjoying them as a quick snack, these Caprese skewers deliver fresh Italian flair with minimal effort and maximum impact.

Julia

Recipe Author: Gluten-Free & Specialty Diet Chef

Nutrition

15 minutes

None servings

85 calories

Fat 6.00g

Carbs 4.00g

Protein 5.00g

Ingredients

24 whole	cherry tomatoes, washed and dried
24 pieces	fresh mozzarella balls, ciliegine or bocconcini size, drained
24 leaves	fresh basil leaves, medium-sized, washed and dried
1/4 cup	balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp	extra virgin olive oil
1/4 tsp	sea salt
1/4 tsp	black pepper, freshly ground
1 tbsp	fresh basil, chopped for garnish (optional)

Equipment

Wooden spoon

Cutting board

measuring spoons

measuring cups

paper towels

knife

serving platter

small saucepan

small wooden skewers or toothpicks

Clean Eating

Exemplifies clean eating with minimally processed, whole ingredients like fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, and extra virgin olive oil, prepared without artificial additives or refined components.

Gluten-Free Diet

Naturally gluten-free recipe using whole ingredients like fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil without any wheat or gluten-containing components, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Mediterranean Diet

This recipe perfectly embodies Mediterranean Diet principles with fresh mozzarella, extra virgin olive oil, herbs, and whole ingredients that celebrate simple, nutrient-dense foods typical of Mediterranean cuisine.

Mindful Eating

Supports mindful eating principles by featuring vibrant, fresh ingredients with varied textures and colors that encourage slow, intentional consumption and sensory appreciation.

Instructions

2 min

Pour the balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and place over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.

10 min

Continue simmering the balsamic vinegar, stirring occasionally, until it reduces by half and becomes thick and syrupy, about 8-10 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and let cool completely.

While the balsamic reduction cools, wash and thoroughly dry the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves. Pat the mozzarella balls dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

3 min

Take a small wooden skewer or toothpick and thread one cherry tomato onto it, pushing it about halfway up the skewer.

Fold a basil leaf in half or thirds and thread it onto the skewer next to the tomato.

Add one mozzarella ball to complete the skewer. Repeat this process with remaining ingredients until you have 12 skewers, using 2 tomatoes, 2 basil leaves, and 2 mozzarella balls per skewer.

8 min

Arrange the completed skewers on a serving platter in a single layer or standing upright in a serving glass.

1 min

Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over all the skewers, then sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.

1 min

Using a spoon, drizzle the cooled balsamic reduction over the skewers in a decorative pattern. Garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired.

1 min

Serve immediately, or cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 hours until ready to serve. If refrigerating, bring to room temperature for 15 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Drizzle

Nutrition

Ingredients

Equipment

On Diet

Clean Eating

Gluten-Free Diet

Mediterranean Diet

Mindful Eating

Instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How can I tell when the balsamic reduction is done, and what should I do if it becomes too thick?

Q2: Can I substitute regular mozzarella if I can't find fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)?

Q3: What if I don't have small wooden skewers or toothpicks as listed in the equipment?

Q4: Can I prepare these Caprese skewers ahead of time, and how far in advance?