Strawberry Caprese Skewers

Strawberry Caprese Skewers. Sweet, savory, and so fun - we're making extravagant yet simple appetizers. A fun twist on a classic caprese salad, instead of tomatoes, these caprese skewers are made with fresh strawberries. They are paired with fresh basil, creamy mozzarella, and tangy balsamic glaze, just like my Caprese Stuffed Avocados.

Caprese strawberries is a fun twist on a classic caprese salad, but instead of tomatoes, these caprese skewers are made with fresh strawberries. I found them easy to assemble and super delicious to eat. It's such a quick, healthy, fresh, and elegant appetizer recipe!

These balsamic strawberry skewers are sure to impress at your spring or summer party. Ready in minutes, each bite is filled with sweet, juicy strawberry, and a drizzle of homemade balsamic glaze that adds complexity and a glossy finish.

Mozzarella perfectly balances sweetness of strawberries and tangy flavor of balsamic glaze, and the skewers look so pretty and elegant.

Why you'll love this recipe

• They are quick, easy and fun to assemble, making them perfect for busy hosts.
• Balsamic vinegar and strawberry are two flavors that work well together. The combination of two distinct types of sweetness (balsamic will reduce to a sweeter flavor and strawberries will add juice and jammy sugariness) creates a truly special appetizer. These two elements don't unite often, but when they do, the flavors become exceptional.
• It's a healthy, low-calorie appetizer option that looks beautiful on any platter.

Key Ingredients

• Balsamic glaze: I always found Balsamic vinegar is very much like wines and olive oils - there is a crazy spectrum of layers of flavor depending on the quality/brand. Did you know that it's pretty common in culinary schools to introduce balsamic to the students by making up a quick mixture of strawberries, balsamic vinegar, and cracked black pepper?
• Strawberries: If you are using medium or large strawberries, cut them in half lengthwise, if you are using small strawberries, leave them whole.
• Mini mozzarella cheese balls: Not too big, not too small, but just right. These are called Perlini, or pearl-like balls of mozzarella. They are extra-small and extra easy to eat, especially when sitting next to the juicy strawberry and bathing in balsamic reduction.

Equipment

• 6-inch wooden or bamboo skewer sticks
• Large serving tray or board for presentation

How to make strawberry caprese skewers

Step 1. Prepare skewers

Arrange 14 skewers on a tray and thread half a strawberry (cut side down) onto each skewer. Fold 1-2 basil leaves and add them to the skewer.

Step 2. Layer mozzarella and basil leaves

• Add one mini mozzarella pearl.
• Add another folded basil leaf, then a second mozzarella pearl.
• Add one more folded basil leaf.

Finish with another strawberry half (cut side down).

Step 3. Arrange and drizzle

• Arrange the prepared skewers evenly spaced on your serving tray or board.
• Drizzle the skewers lightly and artistically with balsamic glaze in a zig-zag pattern - avoid soaking the strawberries to keep them from becoming soggy.
• Optional: drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the skewers for a subtle richness.

Tips for Perfect Strawberry Caprese Skewers

• Use the freshest, ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness and juiciness. Pick them carefully in the store.
• Dry basil leaves thoroughly after washing to avoid excess moisture.
• Add the balsamic glaze just before serving to keep strawberries fresh and crisp.
• Combine creamy mozzarella and aromatic basil for the classic flavor combo with a twist.

Variations and substitutions to try

• Swap mozzarella pearls for other mild creamy or cubed white cheeses, like provolone, regular mozzarella or ricotta salata.
• Use a light vinaigrette or lemon-honey dressing instead of the balsamic glaze, or leave out the glaze altogether for a lighter flavor.
• Try substituting lemon basil or mint for a different herbal twist.
• Add a thin slice of prosciutto between layers for a savory, meaty addition
• Experiment by adding a sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a few pink peppercorns.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Assemble skewers up to 2 days in advance, but hold off on adding the balsamic glaze until just before serving to prevent sogginess.
• Store prepared skewers in an airtight container or ziplock bag in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.

More mouthwatering appetizers

• Nectarine Tomato Burrata Salad
• Mediterranean Bread with Kalamata Olives and Feta
• Baked Brie Bread Appetizer
• Dynamite Shrimp Appetizer

Fresh strawberry recipes

• Strawberry lasagna
• Chocolate Strawberry Cake
• Strawberry Crumb Bars
• Strawberry Blueberry Cake