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.
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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
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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.
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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.
