Description
These Fresh Patriotic Caprese Skewers with Basil Oil Drizzle are a quick, easy, and festive appetizer perfect for summer parties. Featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil with a fragrant basil oil drizzle, they are a crowd-pleaser that’s both fresh and flavorful.
Ingredients
- 1 pint (300 g) cherry tomatoes, red and white varieties
- 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh basil leaves for oil infusion
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, plus more for seasoning skewers
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red or blue toothpicks or small skewers
Instructions
- Prepare the Basil Oil Drizzle: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, and 1 small minced garlic clove. Warm over low heat for about 5 minutes without boiling. Remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain the Oil: Using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the basil and garlic from the oil into a bowl or jar. Season with 1/4 teaspoon sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well and set aside.
- Prepare the Tomatoes and Mozzarella: Rinse cherry tomatoes and pat dry. Drain mozzarella balls. Tear fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread one cherry tomato, one mozzarella ball, and one basil leaf onto each toothpick or small skewer. Repeat until you have about 20 skewers. Arrange on a serving platter.
- Season the Skewers: Lightly sprinkle skewers with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Drizzle Basil Oil: Just before serving, spoon or drizzle the basil oil generously over the skewers.
- Optional Garnish: Sprinkle finely chopped fresh chives or crushed red pepper flakes over the top for extra color and flavor.
Notes
Assemble skewers just before serving to keep basil leaves fresh and mozzarella from getting soggy. Basil oil can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Use room temperature ingredients for best flavor. Warm basil oil gently to avoid burning garlic. For a dairy-free version, substitute vegan mozzarella or firm tofu cubes. Optional spicy kick by adding red pepper flakes to the oil or skewers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 55
- Sugar: 1.5
- Sodium: 90
- Fat: 4.5
- Saturated Fat: 1.5
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 3
Keywords: Caprese skewers, patriotic appetizer, summer party recipe, basil oil drizzle, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, fresh basil, easy appetizer