Bright, flavorful, and perfect for a summer barbecue or picnic, these Caprese salad skewers are a breeze to make and always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and aromatic basil and mint leaves is a classic for a reason: it's simply delicious. Grilling the skewers adds a touch of smokiness and caramelizes the tomatoes slightly, enhancing their natural sweetness. Drizzled with a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, these skewers are a flavorful and refreshing way to enjoy the flavors of summer.
Caprese salad, a classic Italian dish named after the island of Capri, is a simple but elegant combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil. The origins of this dish are unclear, but it is believed to have been created in the early 20th century. It quickly became a popular dish throughout Italy and eventually spread to other parts of the world. While traditional Caprese salad is typically served on a plate, we've decided to put a fun and festive twist on it by turning it into skewers. This makes them perfect for grilling or roasting, and they're also great for parties or picnics. The skewers make it easy to eat, and they're also a great way to add a pop of color to your plate.
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 10 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
20 cherry tomatoes washed and patted dry
1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium heat.
Assemble the skewers by alternating cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil and mint leaves onto wooden skewers.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Brush the skewers with the vinaigrette mixture, making sure to coat all sides.
Grill the skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the mozzarella cheese is melted and slightly browned.
Remove from the grill and serve immediately.
Why It Works
Using cherry tomatoes ensures that they will cook evenly on the skewers.
Grilling the skewers caramelizes the tomatoes and adds a touch of smokiness, enhancing their natural sweetness.
The vinaigrette adds a touch of acidity and brightness, balancing out the sweetness of the tomatoes and the richness of the mozzarella.
The basil and mint leaves add a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the skewers, complementing the other ingredients perfectly.