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Fresh Caprese Skewer Bites with Sweet Balsamic Reduction

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These fresh caprese skewer bites combine cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves drizzled with a homemade sweet balsamic reduction, making a quick, easy, and elegant appetizer perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 ripe cherry tomatoes, washed and dried
  • 20 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained
  • 20 fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
  • ½ cup (120 ml) good-quality balsamic vinegar
  • 1–2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Approximately 20 wooden skewers or toothpicks

Instructions

  1. Prepare the balsamic reduction: Pour ½ cup balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of brown sugar depending on sweetness preference. Place over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to dissolve sugar.
  2. Simmer until the mixture thickens and reduces by about half, forming a syrupy consistency that coats the back of a spoon (about 10-12 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves thoroughly to avoid sogginess.
  4. Assemble the skewers by threading one cherry tomato, followed by a fresh basil leaf (folded if large), and then a mozzarella ball onto each wooden skewer or toothpick. Repeat until all ingredients are used, yielding about 20 skewers.
  5. Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Lightly sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil if using.
  6. Just before serving, drizzle the sweet balsamic reduction evenly over the skewers using a spoon or squeeze bottle.

Notes

Add balsamic reduction just before serving to avoid soggy tomatoes. For a vegan option, substitute mozzarella with vegan cheese or marinated tofu. The balsamic reduction can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for up to a week. If desired, drizzle extra virgin olive oil for added richness. For a smoky flavor, lightly grill the assembled skewers for 2-3 minutes before drizzling balsamic reduction.

Nutrition

Keywords: caprese skewers, appetizer, balsamic reduction, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, easy recipe, party food, finger food

Find it online: https://pokirecipes.com/fresh-caprese-skewer-bites-recipe-easy-perfect-appetizer-with-sweet-balsamic-reduction/