Save A festive and colorful appetizer featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves arranged in a stunning tree shape—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe has become my go-to whenever we host Christmas parties because it looks impressive while being so simple to assemble.
Ingredients
- 20 red cherry tomatoes
- 20 green grape tomatoes (or green cherry tomatoes)
- 20 fresh basil leaves
- 20 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional)
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Rinse and dry the tomatoes and basil leaves. Pat the mozzarella balls dry with paper towels.
- Step 2:
- On each skewer, thread one red cherry tomato, one mini mozzarella ball, one green grape tomato, and one basil leaf. Alternate the order for visual variety if desired.
- Step 3:
- Arrange the finished skewers on a large serving platter or board in the shape of a Christmas tree, starting at the bottom and stacking rows upward in a triangle.
- Step 4:
- Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the skewers. Sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper.
- Step 5:
- Optional drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor and festive shine.
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Save Our family loves making this together as a holiday tradition, especially decorating the skewer tree with extra tomatoes like ornaments.
Required Tools
Small skewers or toothpicks, large serving platter or board, paper towels, small bowl (for olive oil)
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (mozzarella) and is gluten-free. Always verify mozzarella ingredients for possible additives or allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each skewer contains approximately 50 calories, 3.5 g total fat, 1.5 g carbohydrates, and 2.5 g protein.
Save This Caprese skewer tree is a festive and easy appetizer that impresses guests, perfect for holiday parties or anytime you want a fresh colorful bite.
Kitchen Guide
- → How should I arrange the skewers for a festive look?
Stack the skewers in a triangular pattern on a large platter, starting with a wider base and narrowing toward the top to form a Christmas tree shape.
- → Can I substitute any ingredients for variety?
Yes, baby spinach can replace basil leaves, and adding yellow or gold cherry tomatoes adds extra color and visual appeal.
- → Is it better to serve these skewers immediately or chill them?
They can be served right away or refrigerated for up to two hours without losing freshness.
- → What seasoning enhances these skewers?
A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and optional balsamic glaze provide subtle, complementary flavors.
- → Are these skewers suitable for special diets?
Yes, they are vegetarian and gluten-free, making them suitable for many dietary preferences.
- → What type of mozzarella works best?
Mini mozzarella balls like bocconcini or ciliegine are ideal for bite-sized ease and freshness.