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Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Reduction on white plate

Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Reduction

sam
Fresh, vibrant, and rustic these Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Reduction bring together juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil with a sticky-sweet balsamic drizzle. A no-fuss gluten-free appetizer that’s festive, flavorful, and deeply comforting.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Italian
Servings 12 skewers
Calories 78 kcal

Equipment

  • small saucepan
  • measuring cups
  • skewers or toothpicks
  • cutting board
  • serving platter

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar (high-quality)
  • 12 cherry or grape tomatoes
  • 12 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
  • 12 fresh basil leaves
  • 12 toothpicks or small skewers
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Pour the balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces by half and becomes syrupy. Let cool.
  • On each skewer, thread one tomato, one folded basil leaf, and one mozzarella ball. Repeat if skewers are large enough.
  • Arrange skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle with olive oil (if using), season with salt and freshly cracked pepper, and finish with the cooled balsamic reduction just before serving.

Notes

Assemble up to 6 hours ahead, but drizzle the reduction just before serving. Balsamic reduction can be made a week in advance. Try variations like swapping tomatoes for strawberries, using dairy-free mozzarella, or serving over gluten-free crackers.

Nutrition

Calories: 78kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 4gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 2.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.1gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 110mgPotassium: 60mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 450IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 90mgIron: 0.3mg
Keyword balsamic reduction, caprese skewers, fresh mozzarella, gluten free appetizer, holiday appetizer
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