These fun Candy Cane Caprese Skewers bring a twist to a classic salad! With fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and a touch of basil, they’re like a festive party on a stick!
The colors are so bright, they make any table pop with holiday cheer! I love serving them as a tasty snack that’s super easy to make. Plus, who can resist that cute candy cane shape?🎄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry or Grape Tomatoes: These are sweeter and burst with flavor! If you can’t find them, try using diced regular tomatoes, though the smaller ones are ideal for this recipe.
Fresh Mozzarella: Look for mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or the creamier burrata for an extra luscious texture. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try marinated tofu for a similar bite.
Fresh Basil: This adds a lovely herbal note. If you’re out, you can use arugula or spinach, but the flavor will differ. Dried basil can work in a pinch, just use less!
Balsamic Vinegar/Glaze: Balsamic glaze is thicker and sweeter. If unavailable, try a mix of regular balsamic with a bit of honey to create a glaze-like texture.
How Can I Assemble These Skewers Perfectly?
Assembling these skewers is straightforward but requires a little care for presentation. Here’s a step-by-step:
- Start by prepping: Ensure your mozzarella and tomatoes are ready to go, and have your fresh basil rinsed.
- As you thread onto the skewer, place the tomato half, followed by a basil leaf, then a mozzarella slice. Repeat until the skewer is filled, leaving some room to bend.
- To curved a skewer: After layering, gently bend it to form a candy cane shape. Aim for a smooth curve, not a sharp angle.
- Arrange the skewers on a serving platter and finish with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic mixture. This not only enhances flavor but looks great too!
Don’t forget to season well; a little salt and pepper make a big difference!
Candy Cane Caprese Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Wooden skewers (long enough to form a candy cane shape)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy treat that can add festive flair to your holiday gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by slicing the mozzarella into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Then, halve the cherry or grape tomatoes. Don’t forget to wash and dry the fresh basil leaves to keep them lovely and fresh!
2. Assemble the Skewers:
Take a wooden skewer and thread on the ingredients in this order: a tomato half first, followed by a basil leaf, then a mozzarella slice. Repeat this pattern, filling the skewer while leaving a bit of space at one end to curve it into a candy cane shape.
3. Shape the Skewers:
Once you’ve filled the skewer, gently bend it into a candy cane shape and place it carefully on a serving platter. This will make it look festive and fun!
4. Create the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Or, if you prefer, you can simply drizzle balsamic glaze over the skewers directly.
5. Drizzle and Season:
Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic mixture evenly over the assembled skewers. Then, sprinkle with a little salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Add some additional fresh basil sprigs around the skewers on the platter for a beautiful presentation. You can serve them right away or keep them in the fridge for up to 2 hours before serving!
Enjoy your fresh, festive Candy Cane Caprese Skewers! They are sure to bring joy to your table! 🌟
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While cherry or grape tomatoes are ideal, you can also use diced regular tomatoes. Just keep in mind that larger tomatoes may not hold their shape as nicely on the skewer, so be sure to cut them into manageable pieces.
How Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the skewers a few hours in advance! Assemble them and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. Just wait to drizzle the olive oil and balsamic mixture until right before serving to keep everything fresh.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly as the tomatoes and mozzarella absorb moisture over time.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Skewers?
Definitely! Feel free to add other ingredients like sliced olives, roasted bell peppers, or even prosciutto to make it heartier. Just be mindful that adding more ingredients may require longer skewers to maintain the candy cane shape.