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These Caprese wreath skewers make a festive and fresh appetizer that perfectly complements heavier holiday dishes. They bring a burst of color and flavor with just a few simple ingredients, making them an easy crowd-pleaser for any party setting. Their beautiful presentation means guests can enjoy a little bite without needing a plate or utensils, which is perfect for mingling and buffet-style serving.
I first made these for a Christmas gathering and loved how guests kept coming back for more. The fresh basil and tangy balsamic really brighten the dish and make it feel special yet effortless.
Ingredients
- Cherry tomatoes: about 2 cups, ripe and firm for the best juicy pop when bitten
- Mini mozzarella balls: 12 ounces, choose fresh ones packed in water for creamy texture
- Fresh basil leaves: 1 packed cup, look for vibrant green leaves without discoloration
- Balsamic glaze: ¼ cup, adds a sweet tang that brings all the flavors together—store-bought is fine, but homemade is a bonus
- Bamboo skewers: sturdy enough to hold the ingredients while curving into the wreath shape
Instructions
- Sourcing and Preparing the Ingredients:
- Rinse the cherry tomatoes under cold water and gently dry them with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Pat the mini mozzarella balls dry to remove excess moisture so they stay neatly stacked on the skewers without sliding around. Inspect basil leaves for freshness and tear any too long leaves to fit nicely onto the skewers.
- Assembling the Skewers:
- Take one bamboo skewer and thread a cherry tomato onto it, followed by a folded fresh basil leaf to add a pop of green. Then add one mini mozzarella ball. Repeat the sequence one more time to create the red green white color pattern that mimics a festive wreath effect.
- Shaping and Serving:
- Gently bend each skewer into a semi circle or wreath shape as you plate them onto a serving board. Drizzle the assembled skewers lightly with the balsamic glaze just before serving so it doesn’t make the basil soggy. For an extra touch of festivity, tie a tiny ribbon using a strip of basil at the top as a bow and arrange the skewers in a circle on the platter to resemble a full wreath.
Basil is my favorite part of this recipe. Its fresh herbal aroma instantly lifts the whole bite. At my last holiday party, a guest told me they loved how these skewers felt light and refreshing amid all the heavier dishes, which made me glad I added them to my spread.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover skewers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to one day. The basil will start to wilt and the mozzarella may release moisture, so it's best eaten same day. If prepping ahead, assemble everything separately and skewer right before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap mini mozzarella balls for cubed fresh mozzarella if needed. Cherry tomatoes can be replaced with grape tomatoes though they may be less sweet. Instead of balsamic glaze, a drizzle of good quality balsamic vinegar with a little honey makes a nice homemade alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these skewers alongside a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon. Pair with crusty bread and olives for a fuller Italian inspired appetizer spread. They also work well on a buffet table with other bite sized treats.
Happy hosting and enjoy sharing these little wreaths of fresh flavor with your guests.
Your Recipe Questions Answered
- → What ingredients create the Caprese wreath skewers?
Cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze are threaded on bamboo skewers shaped into a wreath.
- → How do you shape the skewers into a wreath?
After threading ingredients, gently curve each skewer to form a circular wreath shape before plating.
- → Can these skewers be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate the skewers, then add balsamic glaze just before serving to keep them fresh.
- → What adds extra holiday flair to these skewers?
A tiny ribbon of basil tied on top serves as a festive bow, enhancing their seasonal appearance.
- → Why is balsamic glaze used on these skewers?
Balsamic glaze provides a sweet and tangy finish that complements the fresh flavors of tomato, basil, and mozzarella.