Easy Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze You’ll Love

Caroline

Sharing simple, flavorful recipes made with love and care.

There’s something about the vibrant colors of fresh mozzarella, ripe cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves threaded onto a skewer that instantly brightens up any table. When I drizzle them with a rich balsamic glaze, these Caprese Salad Skewers transform from a simple appetizer into a show-stopping, crowd-pleasing treat. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe combines fresh ingredients with minimal effort—no chopping board mess, just pure, bite-sized delight. If you’re craving a fresh, flavorful dish that feels both elegant and effortless, these skewers might just become your new go-to!

Why Choose Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze?

Freshness at its Best: Each skewer bursts with ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil for a vibrant flavor combo. Effortless Assembly: No chopping required—thread and drizzle for a quick, mess-free snack. Elegant Presentation: These colorful skewers instantly elevate any table, perfect for guests or weeknight dinners. Versatile Delight: Serve as a light appetizer or a side dish, great for all occasions. Balsamic Glaze Magic: The rich glaze adds just the right balance of sweetness and tang, making every bite unforgettable.

Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze Ingredients

For the Skewers
• Cherry Tomatoes – Choose ripe, firm tomatoes for the freshest burst of flavor.
• Fresh Mozzarella Balls (Bocconcini) – Use soft mozzarella pearls for creamy, melt-in-your-mouth bites.
• Fresh Basil Leaves – Pick bright green leaves to add a fragrant, herbal touch.
• Wooden Skewers – Opt for sturdy, short skewers to keep your Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze intact and easy to handle.

For the Balsamic Glaze
• Balsamic Vinegar – Use a high-quality vinegar to create a rich, tangy glaze.
• Honey or Brown Sugar – Add a bit of sweetness to balance the acidity in the balsamic glaze.
• Salt (optional) – Just a pinch can enhance and deepen the glaze’s flavor.

How to Make Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

Thread Ingredients: Thread one cherry tomato, one mozzarella ball, and a basil leaf onto each wooden skewer, repeating until full. Aim for a colorful pattern: red, white, green.
For the Glaze:
Combine: Pour 1 cup balsamic vinegar and 2 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar) into a small saucepan. Give it a quick stir to dissolve sugar and blend flavors.
Simmer: Bring mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it reduces by half and coats the back of a spoon, about 8–10 minutes, deep and syrupy.
Drizzle Glaze: Allow the balsamic glaze to cool slightly, then gently drizzle it over each skewer in a zigzag pattern, adding glossy, tangy sweetness without overpowering the fresh flavors.
Serve & Enjoy: Arrange skewers on a serving platter, garnish with extra basil leaves. Serve immediately at room temperature so that flavors pop, and watch guests reach for seconds.

Optional: Sprinkle flaky sea salt or crushed black pepper on top for a savory twist.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze?

Elevate your gatherings with these vibrant bites complemented by delightful pairings that balance fresh and flavorful elements.

Crunchy Garlic Bread: This warm, toasty delight adds a crispy texture that perfectly contrasts the soft mozzarella and juicy tomatoes.
Refreshing Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits brings a sweet, refreshing note, enhancing the summer vibe of these skewers. Imagine juicy watermelon and plump berries dancing on your palate!
Herbed Quinoa Salad: With its nutty flavor and fresh herbs, this light side provides a wholesome contrast to the rich balsamic glaze. It offers a healthy, satisfying option alongside.
Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add depth of flavor and texture, while the smokiness complements the bright freshness of the Caprese skewers.
Sparkling White Wine: The bubbles and acidity of a chilled Prosecco or Sauvignon Blanc enhance the skewers’ brightness, making every bite feel special.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Finish the meal on a sweet note—these indulgent treats bring a luscious, tangy joy that echoes the rich flavors of the balsamic glaze.
Crispy Prosciutto Chips: These salty, crunchy bites echo the savory aspect while creating a deliciously crispy accompaniment that can’t be resisted!
Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing add a classic touch to the meal, creating a familiar comfort alongside the gourmet skewers.
Lemon Sorbet: End with a refreshing scoop of this frozen treat to cleanse the palate after the savory bites, leaving everyone feeling light and satisfied.

How to Store and Freeze Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

Fridge: Store any leftover Caprese Salad Skewers in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.

Freezer: While not ideal for freezing due to ingredients’ texture, you can freeze the balsamic glaze in ice cube trays for up to 3 months, making it easy to drizzle over future salads.

Serving: When ready to enjoy, serve skewers at room temperature, or chill them slightly for a refreshing appetizer on a hot day.

Reheating: Avoid reheating the skewers; they are best enjoyed fresh. If the glaze is frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before using.

Tips for the Best Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and bright basil leaves to ensure vibrant flavors and a juicy, creamy bite.
Avoid Overcrowding Skewers: Thread ingredients loosely to keep each bite balanced and easy to eat, preventing squished tomatoes and bruised basil.
Perfect the Glaze: Simmer balsamic vinegar slowly and watch carefully to avoid burning; a syrupy glaze clings beautifully without tasting bitter.
Drizzle Just Before Serving: Add balsamic glaze right before serving to keep the skewers fresh and prevent sogginess from moisture.
Add a Finishing Touch: Sprinkle flaky sea salt or freshly cracked black pepper for a subtle savory lift that complements the sweet and tangy glaze.

Make Ahead Options

These Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the skewers up to 24 hours in advance by threading the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto the wooden skewers. To maintain freshness, store the assembled skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The balsamic glaze can also be made ahead; simply simmer it as instructed, let it cool, and refrigerate in a sealed jar for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, drizzle the chilled glaze over the skewers and enjoy their restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort!

Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Caprese Salad Skewers; the possibilities are as delicious as they are endless!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free skewers or adjust the presentation by layering the ingredients without skewering for a charming salad platter.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh mint or oregano sprigs along with basil for an aromatic twist that will wake up your taste buds.
Add Protein: Include a piece of grilled chicken or salami on the skewer for a hearty option—perfect for a filling meal.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate slices of jalapeño or a drizzle of spicy sriracha to introduce delightful heat that complements the sweetness of the balsamic.
Color Burst: Swap cherry tomatoes with small bell pepper pieces or heirloom tomatoes for a rainbow of flavors and a stunning presentation.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses, like feta for a tangy flavor or goat cheese for creaminess; each adds a distinctive touch.
Glaze Alternatives: Try using a citrus vinaigrette or herb-infused olive oil for a refreshing, zesty contrast to the original balsamic glaze.
Fruit Addition: Thread fresh fruits like strawberries or peaches for a sweet balance; the seasonal twist can turn your skewers into a refreshing summer treat.

Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze Recipe FAQs

How do I pick the best cherry tomatoes for Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze?
Choose firm, plump cherry tomatoes with a vibrant red color and smooth skin. Avoid tomatoes with wrinkles or dark spots all over, as those indicate over-ripeness or spoilage. The fresher, the better—they’ll give you that crisp, juicy burst in every bite!

What’s the best way to store leftover Caprese Salad Skewers?
Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the balsamic glaze separate if possible, and drizzle it just before serving again. This prevents sogginess and keeps the basil fresh and vibrant.

Can I freeze the balsamic glaze? If so, how?
Absolutely! Freezing balsamic glaze is a great way to preserve it. Pour the cooled glaze into ice cube trays, freeze until solid, then transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. The glaze will keep up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw the cubes overnight in the fridge and drizzle as usual.

What if my basil wilts quickly—any tips to keep it fresh longer?
Very! To keep basil fresh, gently wrap the leaves in a damp paper towel and place them inside an airtight container or zip-lock bag in the fridge’s crisper drawer. Use them within 1-2 days for best aroma and flavor. Alternatively, store basil stems in a glass with water at room temperature, loosely covered with a plastic bag.

Is this recipe safe for pets or those with allergies?
While Caprese Salad Skewers are generally safe for humans, avoid feeding them to pets since ingredients like onion or garlic are sometimes added to dressings, which can be harmful. Also, if you or guests have a dairy allergy, substitute fresh mozzarella with a plant-based cheese alternative to keep it safe and delicious!