Featuring a classic flavor combo, these Caprese Skewers aren’t just tasty—they take mere seconds to prepare. Perfect for the lazy chefs among us, this effortless appetizer is proof that elegant doesn’t have to mean complicated.
Whether you’re planning a summer picnic, a cozy holiday party or just want a nutritious snack you can feel good about, this easy Caprese Skewers recipe delivers in every way. Think fresh cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil—all neatly arranged on mini skewers for the perfect bite-sized treat you’ll want to serve at every gathering.
From Christmas to Halloween, these bites can be dressed up for any season or holiday. They’re not only crowd-pleasing but incredibly versatile—making them the ultimate make-ahead caprese skewers for busy hosts and hungry guests.
What Are Caprese Skewers?
This is a fun, portable twist on the traditional Italian caprese salad. Instead of layering tomatoes, mozzarella and basil on a plate, these ingredients are threaded onto small skewers, creating mini caprese skewers that are perfect for serving at parties, potlucks or even as a quick snack or appetizer at home.
The simplicity of this caprese salad skewers recipe is part of what makes it so appealing. In under 10 minutes, you can assemble a platter of vibrant, fresh and flavorful skewers that not only look fancy but taste incredible too. They’re a great addition to charcuterie boards and appetizer spreads, and are ideal for holidays, game days or weeknight dinners.
Nutrition & Health Benefits
This recipe is more than just delicious—it’s also a healthy option that fits right into a balanced diet. With only 71 calories per serving (two skewers with a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar), this recipe is light but satisfying.
Each skewer includes fresh cherry tomatoes loaded with antioxidants like lycopene, creamy mozzarella balls for a good dose of calcium and protein, and fresh basil, which brings both flavor and anti-inflammatory benefits to the table.
If you’re following Nutrisystem, each serving counts as one PowerFuel, making it easy to track and enjoy guilt-free.
How to Make Caprese Skewers
This recipe couldn’t be easier to prepare. You’ll need cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, fresh basil and small skewers. To build each skewer, simply alternate the ingredients: tomato, basil leaf, mozzarella, another basil leaf and finish with another tomato. This layering not only looks beautiful but ensures every bite has the perfect balance of creamy, juicy and herby flavor.
Before serving, pour some balsamic vinegar into a small bowl for dipping or drizzling. This adds a tangy note to round out the flavors.
Pro tip: These skewers can be made a few hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
What to Serve with Caprese Appetizer Skewers
These fancy caprese skewers work well on their own, but they’re also a delicious complement to a wide variety of dishes. Consider pairing them with:
- Grilled chicken or shrimp
- Crusty bread or crostini
- A glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon
- Charcuterie boards with meats, nuts and olives
- Hearty soups like tomato basil or minestrone
- Pasta dishes like penne pasta primavera or chicken parmesan
Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party or prepping a casual dinner, these caprese salad skewers will always have a place on your table.
Creative Variations
The beauty of skewers lies in their versatility. With a few tweaks, you can create versions tailored to every taste and occasion. Here are some crowd-pleasing customizations:
- Caprese skewers with salami – Add a folded slice of salami between the basil and mozzarella for a meaty bite.
- Caprese skewers with tortellini – Thread cooked, chilled cheese tortellini for a pasta-packed twist.
- Caprese skewers with olives – Insert a Kalamata or green olive to add a briny, salty contrast.
- Prosciutto caprese skewers – Wrap the mozzarella in prosciutto for a touch of elegance.
- Caprese skewers with meat – Add grilled chicken or cooked Italian sausage slices for a more substantial snack.
- Caprese chicken skewers – Layer grilled chicken chunks with tomato, basil and mozzarella for a protein-rich version.
- Marinated caprese skewers – Infuse flavor by marinating mozzarella and tomatoes in olive oil, garlic and herbs beforehand.
- Caprese heart skewers – Use heart-shaped picks and slice cherry tomatoes in half for Valentine’s Day or romantic occasions.
- Christmas caprese skewers – Stack the ingredients in red and white patterns, and serve with festive picks for holiday cheer.
- Halloween caprese skewers – Use novelty toothpicks shaped like skulls or pumpkins and arrange them with black olives for spooky flair.
These variations ensure there’s a snack for every guest and every occasion—whether you’re hosting a summer soirée or decking the halls for the holidays.
Fresh, Fast and Flavorful
Caprese skewers are one of those rare recipes that are as beautiful as they are practical. Easy to prepare, endlessly customizable and always a hit, they are a must-have in your appetizer arsenal. With this foolproof recipe, you’ll be able to whip up a tray in no time—whether it’s for a holiday party, a casual BBQ or a weekday snack.
They’re low in calories, rich in nutrients and bursting with fresh flavor. And thanks to their make-ahead potential and wide range of variations, they’ll quickly become your go-to for every event.
Servings: 10 (Makes ~20 skewers ; 1 serving = 2 skewers with 1 tsp. of balsamic vinegar)
Calories per Serving: 71
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 PowerFuel
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pints (about 40) small cherry tomatoes
- 8 oz. (about 20) mini mozzarella balls
- 1 bunch (about 1 cup) fresh basil
- Small skewers
- Balsamic vinegar (for dipping)
Directions:
- Add the ingredients to your skewers in the following order: tomato, basil leaf, mozzarella ball, basil leaf, tomato.
- When ready to serve, pour the balsamic vinegar into a bowl beside the skewers for dipping.