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Fresh Star-Spangled Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

fresh star-spangled caprese skewers - featured image
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A fresh, colorful, and easy-to-make appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, blueberries, and basil, drizzled with tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for parties and summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pint (about 300g) cherry tomatoes, firm and ripe
  • 8 ounces (225g) fresh mozzarella pearls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
  • 1 cup (150g) fresh blueberries, washed and dried
  • 1 small bunch (about 15 leaves) fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
  • ½ cup (120ml) balsamic glaze, store-bought or homemade
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • Coarse sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 12 to 15 skewers (bamboo or reusable metal), about 6 inches (15cm) long

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients (10 minutes): Rinse and dry cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and blueberries thoroughly. Pat the mozzarella pearls dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture.
  2. Make the Balsamic Glaze (Optional, 15 minutes): In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup (240ml) balsamic vinegar and 2 tablespoons (25g) brown sugar. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally until the mixture has thickened and reduced by half, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. Assemble the Skewers (10-15 minutes): Starting with a cherry tomato, thread one onto each skewer, followed by a basil leaf (folded if large), a mozzarella pearl, and a blueberry. Repeat the pattern if your skewers are longer or if you want multiple layers, ending with a tomato or blueberry for a colorful finish.
  4. Arrange and Season (5 minutes): Place the assembled skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle lightly with extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  5. Finish with Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle the balsamic glaze evenly over the skewers just before serving. The glaze should be thick enough to cling but not overly sticky. If it’s too thick, thin slightly with a splash of water.
  6. Serve Immediately or Chill: These skewers are best served fresh, but you can refrigerate them for up to 2 hours before serving. Let them come to room temperature for 10 minutes prior to enjoying for optimal flavor.

Notes

If making balsamic glaze at home, watch heat carefully to avoid burning. Assemble skewers close to serving time to preserve freshness. For grilling, soak bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes before use. Add balsamic glaze just before serving to prevent sogginess. Dairy-free alternatives include marinated tofu or vegan cheese. Blueberries can be substituted with blackberries or halved grapes.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, party appetizer, balsamic glaze, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, blueberries, summer recipe, easy appetizer, patriotic food

Find it online: https://ariaappetite.com/fresh-star-spangled-caprese-skewers-recipe-easy-perfect-party-appetizer/