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Easy Fresh Caprese Skewers Recipe with Homemade Balsamic Reduction

Fresh Caprese Skewers - featured image
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A quick and fresh appetizer featuring grape tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil on skewers, drizzled with a homemade balsamic reduction. Perfect for last-minute gatherings and parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 grape or cherry tomatoes, rinsed
  • 20 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
  • 20 fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • About 20 wooden or bamboo skewers, 4-inch length

Instructions

  1. Pour ½ cup (120 ml) balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon (15 g) honey or brown sugar. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  2. Let the mixture simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and reduces by about half—about 8–10 minutes. The consistency should be syrupy enough to coat the back of a spoon. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  3. Remove from heat and let the balsamic reduction cool to room temperature. It will thicken more as it cools.
  4. On each skewer, thread a grape tomato first, then a fresh basil leaf (folded if large), followed by a mozzarella ball. Repeat until all skewers are assembled. If tomatoes are large, halve them to keep bites manageable.
  5. Place skewers in a mixing bowl or on a platter. Drizzle 2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil over them. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, then toss gently to coat.
  6. Neatly arrange skewers on a serving platter. Using a spoon or small squeeze bottle, drizzle the cooled balsamic reduction over the skewers just before serving.
  7. Optional: Add a few extra basil leaves around the platter for a fresh, pretty touch.

Notes

Prepare the balsamic reduction ahead and store in the fridge for up to a week. Bring to room temperature before drizzling. Thread ingredients in the order tomato, basil, mozzarella to keep skewers intact. Avoid over-reducing balsamic vinegar to prevent bitterness. Optionally toss mozzarella in olive oil and garlic powder for extra flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days, keeping balsamic separate until serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, balsamic reduction, appetizer, fresh mozzarella, basil, grape tomatoes, easy recipe, party food

Find it online: https://junomeals.com/easy-fresh-caprese-skewers-recipe-with-homemade-balsamic-reduction/