Caprese Salad Kabobs: A Refreshing and Easy Appetizer

Caprese Salad Kabobs offer a simple yet flavorful twist on the classic Caprese salad. These vibrant skewers feature juicy grape tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil leaves, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to elegant dinners, these kabobs are sure to be a hit with guests of all ages. The individual ingredients come together to form a delightful combination of textures and fresh flavors, making each bite a satisfying experience.

If you’re looking for more inspiration for easy appetizers, consider checking out this guide to making fresh Caprese salad or exploring other fresh salad recipes on Delish’s guide. These links will give you more ideas for creating refreshing, crowd-pleasing dishes with a variety of fresh ingredients.

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

This recipe for Caprese Salad Kabobs is as simple as it is delicious. With just a few ingredients, you can create an appetizer that looks impressive and tastes fresh and satisfying.

Caprese Salad Kabobs: Easy & Refreshing Appetizer for Any Occasion

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• Author: Jennifer Mitchell
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 12 kabobs (2 pieces per kabob) 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Caprese Salad Kabobs are a fun and easy twist on the classic Caprese salad. Perfect for appetizers or as a light snack, these skewers feature juicy grape tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese balls, and aromatic basil leaves, all drizzled with a simple dressing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. The bite-sized kabobs are fresh, flavorful, and ideal for entertaining.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 24 grape tomatoes
• 12 cherry-size fresh mozzarella cheese balls
• 24 fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   Rinse the grape tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Drain the mozzarella cheese balls from their liquid.

2. Assemble the Kabobs:
   On each skewer (you can use wooden or metal skewers), thread 1 grape tomato, 1 mozzarella cheese ball, and 1 basil leaf. Repeat this pattern for all the skewers until all ingredients are used.

3. Make the Dressing:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar until well combined.

4. Drizzle the Dressing:
   Arrange the assembled kabobs on a serving platter. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing over the kabobs, making sure they are lightly coated.

5. Serve:
   Serve immediately as a refreshing appetizer or snack. Optionally, garnish with additional fresh basil or a pinch of salt and pepper.

Notes

Make-Ahead: These kabobs can be assembled up to 2 hours in advance. Just keep them covered and refrigerated until ready to serve.

Optional Toppings: For added flavor, sprinkle the kabobs with a little sea salt, freshly cracked black pepper, or red pepper flakes.

Balsamic Glaze: For a sweeter, more intense balsamic flavor, you can drizzle a balsamic glaze instead of the vinegar.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: No-Cook
• Category: Appetizer, Snack
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 kabob pieces (1 skewer)
• Calories: 60
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Caprese Salad Kabobs Recipe

Instructions:

1. Assemble the Kabobs: Start by threading the ingredients onto skewers in an alternating pattern: grape tomato, fresh mozzarella ball, and basil leaf. Repeat this until all ingredients are used, creating 12 kabobs in total. If you don’t have skewers, you can also use toothpicks for a smaller bite-sized version.
2. Drizzle with Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar: Once your kabobs are assembled, drizzle them with olive oil and balsamic vinegar to enhance the flavor and add a glossy finish. Make sure the oil and vinegar coat each skewer for the perfect balance of richness and tanginess.
3. Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the kabobs on a serving platter and serve immediately as a refreshing appetizer. These kabobs are perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish to complement any meal.

Advanced Techniques for Caprese Salad Kabobs

While the basic recipe is already delicious, here are a few tips and techniques to take your Caprese Salad Kabobs to the next level:

1. Add a Twist with Flavored Olive Oil

To give your Caprese Salad Kabobs an extra burst of flavor, use a flavored olive oil such as garlic-infused or lemon-infused olive oil. The additional aromatic notes will elevate the freshness of the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

2. Grill the Kabobs for Smoky Flavor

For a smoky flavor, try grilling the kabobs! Simply preheat a grill or grill pan and cook the assembled kabobs for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the mozzarella begins to melt slightly and the tomatoes are slightly charred. The grilling will add depth to the flavors and give the dish a slightly charred, smoky note.

3. Spice Things Up with Red Pepper Flakes

If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the kabobs before serving. The slight spice complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and the creaminess of the mozzarella.

4. Try Different Types of Cheese

While fresh mozzarella is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other cheeses, such as bocconcini, burrata, or even goat cheese, for a unique twist on the classic flavor profile.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Caprese Salad Kabobs are best served fresh, but if you have leftovers or need to prepare them in advance, here are some storage tips:

1. Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover kabobs, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. While they are best eaten fresh, the flavors will still be delicious when kept in the fridge. For the freshest taste, it’s recommended to consume them within 24 hours.

2. Storing Components Separately

If you plan to make the kabobs ahead of time, you can store the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil separately in the fridge. Assemble the kabobs just before serving for the best texture and freshness.

3. Do Not Over-Marinade

If you’re using olive oil and balsamic vinegar to marinate the kabobs in advance, don’t leave them for too long, as the tomatoes can release their juice, making the kabobs soggy. A short marination (about 30 minutes) is best if you’re prepping ahead.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

Caprese Salad Kabobs are naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and can be easily modified to fit different dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

1. Vegan Option

To make the kabobs vegan, substitute the fresh mozzarella with a plant-based mozzarella alternative. There are plenty of dairy-free cheeses available that mimic the creamy texture of mozzarella and work well with the fresh ingredients in this dish.

2. Dairy-Free Option

For those avoiding dairy, you can substitute the fresh mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese or leave it out entirely. The kabobs will still be full of flavor thanks to the sweet tomatoes, fragrant basil, and the delicious balsamic drizzle.

3. Low-Carb/Keto Option

This recipe is naturally low in carbs, making it a perfect fit for a keto or low-carb diet. Just be mindful of the balsamic vinegar portion, as it contains a small amount of sugar. You can reduce the amount of vinegar or use a sugar-free version if needed.

FAQs About Caprese Salad Kabobs

1. Can I make these kabobs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to assemble the kabobs just before serving to keep the basil fresh and the cheese at its best texture.

2. Can I use other vegetables in the kabobs?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or even small pieces of zucchini to your kabobs. These additions will complement the fresh flavors and add a crunch.

3. How do I store leftovers?

If you have leftover Caprese Salad Kabobs, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. However, the basil may wilt, and the texture of the mozzarella may change slightly, so they are best eaten fresh.

4. Can I grill these kabobs?

Yes, you can grill the kabobs for extra flavor. Grill them on medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side to lightly char the tomatoes and melt the mozzarella slightly for a smoky touch.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Caprese Salad Kabobs are the perfect combination of fresh, simple ingredients and delightful flavors. With juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, this dish is a guaranteed hit for any event. It’s easy to prepare, highly customizable, and can be served as a starter or snack for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a summer barbecue, a family dinner, or an elegant cocktail party, these kabobs will be a refreshing and delicious addition to your menu. Enjoy this classic Italian-inspired treat and get ready for rave reviews!