Heart-Shaped Caprese Skewers
A quick and charming 5-minute party appetizer featuring fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes shaped into hearts, basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Perfect for romantic dinners, casual gatherings, or any occasion.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 skewers
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- Fresh mozzarella balls (Bocconcini or Ciliegine), about 12 small balls
- Ripe cherry or grape tomatoes, about 12
- Fresh basil leaves, about 12 leaves
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
- Extra virgin olive oil (optional), for drizzling
- Salt, a pinch
- Freshly ground black pepper, a pinch
- Wooden skewers or toothpicks, about 12 (4 inches long)
Instructions
- Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves thoroughly.
- Cut a small slit lengthwise along one side of each cherry tomato. Gently press the cut sides inward to form a heart shape, being careful not to squish the tomatoes.
- Drain the mozzarella balls well and pat dry with paper towels if needed to avoid excess moisture.
- Assemble each skewer by threading a basil leaf first (fold if large), then a heart-shaped tomato, followed by a mozzarella ball. Repeat if skewers are long enough or keep to one set for bite-sized pieces.
- Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Lightly drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze.
- Sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper over the skewers to taste.
- Optionally, garnish the platter with whole basil leaves or edible flowers for presentation.
- Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Notes
Use firm cherry tomatoes to maintain heart shapes without falling apart. Pat mozzarella dry to avoid soggy skewers. Assemble just before serving for freshness. Optionally grill skewers 1-2 minutes per side to melt cheese slightly. Vegan alternatives include marinated tofu or vegan cheese. Balsamic glaze can be homemade by simmering balsamic vinegar with honey until syrupy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (1 tomato,
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 90
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Fiber: 0.3
- Protein: 4
Keywords: Caprese, skewers, appetizer, party snack, heart-shaped, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, balsamic glaze, easy recipe