Candy Cane Caprese Skewers are a fun twist on the classic salad! These colorful bites feature fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and basil, all dressed up with a candy cane theme. Perfect for the holidays!
Your guests will love the sweet and savory combo. Plus, they look adorable on any party platter! I like to drizzle a bit of balsamic for a tasty finish. These skewers are as easy to make as they are to eat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of sweetness. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, substitute with grape tomatoes for similar taste and size, or use larger tomatoes cut into bite-sized pieces.
Fresh Mozzarella: Small mozzarella balls (bocconcini) are great for this recipe. For a twist, use feta or even a dairy-free cheese for a vegan version. Just make sure it has a similar texture!
Fresh Basil: Basil brings an aromatic freshness. If you don’t have basil, try fresh parsley or even arugula for a different flavor profile. Just tear the leaves to release their oils!
Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar: These provide a nice dressing. You can substitute regular balsamic with a flavored balsamic like raspberry, or use lemon juice for acidity instead of vinegar.
How Can I Assemble the Skewers Perfectly?
Assembling the skewers can be a quick and fun process! Start by prepped ingredients, making it easier to grab and go. Here’s how to make them look neat:
- Thread a cherry tomato half first for a stable base, then alternate with mozzarella.
- Keep the assembly snug but not too tight to prevent squishing the ingredients.
- Gently curve the skewer into a candy cane shape, but handle it with care—don’t force the bend.
- Finally, tuck in basil leaves at the base to enhance the festive look!
Letting them marinate a little before serving helps meld the flavors together beautifully!
Candy Cane Caprese Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 20 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 20 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), sliced if large
- Fresh basil leaves
- 10 wooden skewers (6-inch length)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You can also let the skewers marinate for an additional 10 minutes to enhance the flavor. So, overall, you’ll need about 25 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by washing your cherry tomatoes and cutting them in half. If some mozzarella balls are larger, slice them in half to match the size of your tomatoes. Don’t forget to rinse and pat dry the fresh basil leaves. Everything should be ready to go!
2. Assemble the Skewers:
Take a wooden skewer and thread a cherry tomato half onto it. Next, add a slice of mozzarella or a whole mozzarella ball, followed by another cherry tomato half. Alternate until the skewer is filled, finishing with another cherry tomato half to keep the red and white candy cane look going strong!
3. Shape the Skewers:
Once you have all your ingredients on the skewer, gently bend it into a candy cane shape. Place each skewer on a serving platter, arranging them attractively.
4. Add the Basil:
At the straight end of the skewer, tuck in 2-3 fresh basil leaves. This not only looks good but also adds a nice aroma. It’s reminiscent of the greenery of a candy cane!
5. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until combined. This will be your delicious drizzle!
6. Finish the Skewers:
Gently drizzle the dressing over the assembled skewers. This adds flavor and makes them shine on your platter!
7. Let Them Marinate:
For extra flavor, let the skewers sit for about 10 minutes. This gives the dressing time to soak into the tomatoes and mozzarella.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
These Candy Cane Caprese Skewers can be served chilled or at room temperature. They make a fantastic festive appetizer or fun party snack! Enjoy the beautiful colors and fresh taste!
Can I Substitute Other Ingredients?
Absolutely! You can use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes or feta cheese as an alternative to mozzarella for a different flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or mint can also be used in place of basil.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the basil may wilt, so consider storing the basil leaves separately until you’re ready to serve them again!
Can I Prepare These Skewers in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the skewers a few hours ahead of time and keep them in the refrigerator. Just wait to drizzle the dressing on until right before serving to keep them fresh.
Do I Need to Marinate the Skewers?
While it’s optional, marinating the skewers for about 10 minutes after drizzling with dressing enhances the flavors and allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully!
