Strawberry Basil Caprese Skewers

Name: Strawberry Basil Caprese Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pint ripe strawberries, hulled; 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls; 1 bunch fresh basil leaves; Balsamic glaze, for drizzling; Salt and pepper to taste; Skewers or toothpicks

Highlighted under: Light Eating Recipes

I love creating light and refreshing appetizers, and these Strawberry Basil Caprese Skewers are one of my favorites. With juicy strawberries, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, they are bursting with flavor and texture. The sweet and savory combination is perfect for summer gatherings or a casual snack at home. Assembling these skewers is quick and easy, making it a fun project for kids and adults alike. Trust me, once you try these delightful bites, they will become a staple in your entertaining repertoire.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-13T12:13:30.486Z

Creating these Strawberry Basil Caprese Skewers was an exciting culinary adventure for me. I was inspired to combine the classic Caprese salad with a sweet twist using strawberries. The result was a medley of flavors that captivated my taste buds. I discovered that the freshness of the strawberries complemented the mozzarella beautifully, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze elevated the entire dish.

As I prepared the skewers, I found that alternating the ingredients not only enhanced the visual appeal but also ensured every bite was a perfect balance of flavors. Using fresh basil from my garden added a lovely aromatic touch that tied everything together. It quickly turned into a go-to recipe for picnics and parties!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet strawberries meld perfectly with creamy mozzarella.
Fragrant basil adds a refreshing contrast.
Beautiful and colorful presentation that impresses guests.

      

Choosing the Right Ingredients

When making Strawberry Basil Caprese Skewers, the quality of your ingredients plays a significant role in the overall taste and presentation. Choose ripe strawberries that are deep red and glossy, as they will provide the sweetest flavor. Aim for fresh mozzarella balls—often labeled as bocconcini or ciliegine—for a creamy texture. The mozzarella should be soft but still hold its shape, so check for any excess moisture during your selection process. This ensures that each bite will blend beautifully with the strawberries and basil.

Fresh basil is imperative for this recipe, as it offers a vibrant aromatic profile that complements the sweetness of the strawberries. Look for basil leaves that are bright green and free from browning or wilting. For this app, using small, young basil leaves can provide a more delicate flavor and better presentation when skewered. Additionally, consider using a balsamic reduction rather than standard balsamic vinegar for drizzling; it enhances sweetness and offers a thicker consistency that adheres well to the skewers.

Assembly Tips

Assembling these skewers is not only fun but also an opportunity to engage with family or friends. When you thread the ingredients, consider introducing a slight twist by adding different herbs, like mint or arugula, between the layers. This brings an unexpected flavor contrast while maintaining the lightness of the dish. If you’re preparing a larger batch, consider using longer skewers to space the ingredients further apart, as this can enhance presentation and make for a more visually stunning display.

I recommend starting with the strawberry on the skewer, as its sturdiness helps stabilize the subsequent additions. For the best visual appeal, alternate the colors and textures intentionally—this creates an eye-catching effect that will surely impress your guests. If you’re making these skewers ahead of time, you can assemble them a few hours in advance, but avoid drizzling the balsamic glaze until just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and prevent them from getting soggy.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare these delicious skewers:

Ingredients

1 pint ripe strawberries, hulled
8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls
1 bunch fresh basil leaves
Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Salt and pepper to taste
Skewers or toothpicks

With these ingredients, you're set to create a delightful appetizer!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to assemble your skewers:

Assemble the Skewers

Take a skewer or toothpick and start by threading a strawberry onto it. Follow this with a basil leaf and a mozzarella ball. Repeat this pattern until the skewer is filled, leaving a little space at the ends for easy handling.

Dress the Skewers

Once all your skewers are assembled, lightly drizzle them with balsamic glaze. Optionally, sprinkle with a little salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

That's it! Your Strawberry Basil Caprese Skewers are ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the mozzarella balls in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before assembling. These skewers are best served fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble them just before serving.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These Strawberry Basil Caprese Skewers are best served fresh, but if you need to store them, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 hours. To maintain the integrity of the ingredients, place parchment paper between layers to avoid compression. When serving, place the skewers on a decorative platter along with extra balsamic glaze for drizzling or dipping. Pair them with a chilled glass of white wine or a light spritzer for a refreshing summertime experience.

If you're looking to mix up the presentation for a themed party, consider serving these skewers on a bed of arugula or mixed greens, which not only adds a green pop but also adds to the overall flavor profile of the dish. For more family-friendly fun, create a 'Build-Your-Own' skewer station with extra toppings such as olives or cherry tomatoes, allowing guests, especially kids, to curate their creations.

Variations and Customization

Feel free to get creative with these skewers by swapping out the ingredients! Try peaches or nectarines instead of strawberries for a different fruit option. Alternatively, for a heartier version, add prosciutto or salami for a savory touch that complements the sweetness of the fruit. If you want a vegetarian twist, marinated artichokes can replace the mozzarella, adding a layer of tanginess while keeping the dish dairy-free.

For a spicy kick, consider adding a slice of jalapeño or a drizzle of hot honey over the skewers. This contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the strawberries and balances the flavor profile. If you're aiming for a vegan version, use plant-based mozzarella and a balsamic reduction, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful dish no matter their dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?

Absolutely! You can experiment with other fruits like peaches or pineapple for a different twist.

→ How do I store the skewers?

Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

While it's best to assemble them fresh, you can prepare the ingredients a few hours in advance.

→ What can I serve with these skewers?

These skewers pair wonderfully with a light wine or as part of a charcuterie board.