Easy Caprese Skewers Recipe (Tomato Mozzarella Basil Skewers)

Name: Easy Caprese Skewers Recipe (Tomato Mozzarella Basil Skewers)
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 200g (7 oz) bocconcini (fresh mozzarella pearls), drained Or try our Marinated Mozzarella Balls; 250g (9 oz) baby plum or cherry tomatoes; 12 fresh basil leaves; Balsamic glaze, for drizzling; 12 small bamboo skewers or cocktail picks

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These Caprese Skewers are your favorite Caprese salad… on a stick! Easy, elegant, and ready in just 15 minutes, they make the perfect Italian appetizer for any gathering—from laid-back picnics to festive holiday spreads.

Close-up of vibrant Caprese skewers showing juicy red tomatoes, herbed mozzarella balls, and fresh basil, with glossy streaks of balsamic glaze highlighting the dish.

Caprese is inspired by the colors of the Italian flag and hails from the island of Capri. These bite-sized skewers are a modern twist—perfect for summer entertaining, Valentine’s Day appetizers, or anytime you want a healthy snack with a bit of flair.

If you love Caprese salad, you’ll adore these Skewers. They’re light, fresh, and bursting with classic Italian flavors—juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a touch of tangy balsamic glaze. No cooking required!

Scroll down for step-by-step photos, helpful tips, and fun flavor variations!

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When Are Tomatoes in Season?
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Caprese Skewers
Appetizer Skewer Variations
Serving Suggestions
Wine Pairing Suggestions
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
Join Our Newsletter
FAQ's
More Italian Recipes
Easy Caprese Skewers Recipe (Tomato Mozzarella Basil Skewers)

When Are Tomatoes in Season?

Tomatoes are at their best from late spring through early fall, when they’re sun-ripened and full of flavor—perfect for dishes like these Caprese Skewers.

In the Northern Hemisphere, tomato season typically runs from May to September, while in the Southern Hemisphere, it peaks from November to March.

Want to know exactly when tomatoes are in season near you? Check your local harvest calendar here.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients for Caprese skewers including a bowl of cherry tomatoes, jar of marinated bocconcini, fresh basil leaves, wooden skewers, and a squeeze bottle of balsamic glaze, labeled for clarity.

To make these Italian inspired Caprese Skewers, you’ll only need five simple ingredients:

Bocconcini (fresh mozzarella pearls) – Soft, creamy, and perfectly bite-sized. For extra flavor, try using our Marinated Mozzarella Balls with olive oil and herbs.
Baby plum or cherry tomatoes – Juicy, sweet, and full of summery flavor, these small tomatoes add color and a pop of brightness to each bite. Choose ripe, firm tomatoes for the best texture.
Fresh basil leaves – Basil adds that signature Caprese aroma and flavor. Go for whole leaves and fold them if they’re large—this adds height and volume to your skewers, plus a burst of green!
Balsamic glaze – A rich, syrupy reduction of balsamic vinegar that adds sweet tang and complexity. You can use store-bought or make your own with our Easy Balsamic Glaze Recipe.
Small bamboo skewers or cocktail picks – Look for skewers around 4 to 6 inches long—just the right size for appetizers. You can also use reusable cocktail picks or mini forks if you’re going zero-waste.

See the recipe card for quantities

How to Make Caprese Skewers

Made and Tested in our kitchen and loved by our readers—this recipe is simple and delicious!

Step-by-step process photo showing cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and marinated bocconcini being assembled onto wooden skewers on a wooden board, ready to create Caprese skewers.

Assemble the skewers: Thread one cherry tomato, one folded basil leaf (if large), and one bocconcini onto each skewer. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
Arrange on a serving platter and drizzle with balsamic glaze, and season with salt and pepper just before serving.
Serve at room temperature for the best flavor.

Chef’s Tip! Use the best quality ingredients you can find, the combination of fresh basil, ripe tomatoes and creamy mozzarella balls tastes like an Italian summer (on a stick)!

Appetizer Skewer Variations

Switch things up with these fun and flavorful skewer appetizer ideas—perfect for mixing and matching at parties or adding to snack platters and charcuterie boards.

Antipasto Skewers – Thread in slices of salami, marinated olives, and artichoke hearts for a bold, savory twist on the Italian classic.
Melon and Prosciutto – A timeless combo of sweet melon and salty prosciutto. Add a mint leaf or mozzarella pearl for extra flair.
Watermelon, Feta, and Mint – Refreshing and vibrant, this sweet-savory combo is perfect for hot summer days.
Greek Salad Skewers – Think mini Greek salad on a stick—add cherry tomatoes, cucumber chunks, olives, and feta cubes. Drizzle with Greek vinaigrette.
Pear, Blue Cheese, and Arugula – Slices of juicy pear, tangy blue cheese, and peppery arugula, finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Serving Suggestions

These Caprese Skewers are incredibly versatile and fit into just about any occasion. Here are a few fun ways to serve them:

Add them to an antipasto platter – Pair with olives, marinated vegetables, cured meats, and crusty bread for an Italian-inspired appetizer spread.
Serve in mason jars – A creative and portable option for picnics, potlucks, or lunch boxes. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings—or even festive holiday spreads thanks to their naturally red and green colors!
Place in shot glasses – Stand each skewer upright in a shot glass with a drop of balsamic glaze or basil pesto at the bottom for an elegant dinner party appetizer.
With crostini – Let guests pull the ingredients off the skewer and layer them on toasted bread for a DIY bite.
Add to a summer brunch board – A great addition alongside fresh fruit, quiche, and sparkling drinks.
Pack in lunch boxes – Kid-friendly and colorful, they make a healthy and fun lunch addition.

Angled close-up of skewers loaded with cherry tomatoes, basil, and marinated bocconcini, lightly dressed with balsamic reduction, ready to serve on a white dish.

Wine Pairing Suggestions

These fresh and flavorful Caprese Skewers pair beautifully with light, crisp wines. Here are a few of our favorite pairings:

Pinot Grigio – Crisp, clean, and citrusy, Pinot Grigio is a natural match for fresh mozzarella and tomatoes.
Dry Rosé – Fruity and refreshing, a dry rosé brings subtle red berry notes that pair wonderfully with basil and balsamic glaze. It’s also a festive choice for warm-weather gatherings.
Prosecco – Light and bubbly with a touch of sweetness, Prosecco is a fun and celebratory pairing. Its effervescence cuts through the richness of the mozzarella and enhances every bite.
Vermentino or Sauvignon Blanc – For something a little different, try a zippy white like Vermentino or Sauvignon Blanc. Their herbal and citrus notes echo the freshness of the basil.

Whether you’re hosting an Italian-themed dinner party or enjoying a picnic in the sun, these wines will make every bite sing. Feel free to experiment and let us know which wine pairing is your favorite.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

Make ahead: Assemble up to 4 hours in advance. Keep chilled. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and season with salt and pepper just before serving.
Serve at room temperature for best flavor.
Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge. Best enjoyed within 24 hours.
❄️ These Caprese skewers are not freezer friendly.

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FAQ's

Q :What are Caprese skewers made of?

A : Caprese skewers are made with just a handful of fresh ingredients: cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and mozzarella pearls (bocconcini), all threaded onto small skewers and finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. They’re a bite-sized twist on the classic Italian Caprese salad, served as a no-cook appetizer that's perfect for entertaining.

Q : Do I need to use balsamic glaze over these Caprese skewers?

A : Balsamic glaze adds a rich, sweet, and tangy finish that enhances the natural flavors of the tomatoes and mozzarella—but it's totally optional. If you prefer, you can use extra virgin olive oil, a sprinkle of sea salt, or a light balsamic vinegar dressing instead. For a homemade option, try our Easy Balsamic Glaze Recipe.

Q : Are Caprese skewers gluten-free?

A : Yes, Caprese skewers are naturally gluten-free! They contain no wheat, bread, or flour-based ingredients, making them a great choice for gluten-sensitive guests. They're also vegetarian and low-carb—perfect for a variety of dietary needs. Just be sure to check the labels on your balsamic glaze and mozzarella, as some store-bought versions may contain hidden gluten or additives.

Q : Can Caprese skewers be made ahead of time?

A : Absolutely. You can assemble the skewers up to 4 hours in advance and store them in the fridge. For the best presentation and flavor, add the basil leaves and balsamic glaze just before serving, as basil can wilt and glaze may soften the cheese if left too long.

Q : How many Caprese skewers per person?

A : As a general rule, plan for 2 to 3 Caprese skewers per person when serving them as an appetizer or part of a grazing board. If they’re the star of the show or part of a light lunch, you might want to offer a few more.

Side angle shot of a ceramic platter topped with vibrant Caprese skewers, placed on a light blue background with scattered basil leaves for a summery presentation.

More Italian Recipes

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Whether you're planning a holiday party or a summer picnic, these Caprese Skewers are a go-to appetizer—fresh, flavorful, and always a hit. Try them with our marinated mozzarella for an extra burst of flavor.

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