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Easy 5-Ingredient Caprese Skewers Recipe with Fresh Pesto Perfect for Parties

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A quick and elegant appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a bright homemade pesto, perfect for parties and last-minute gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 cherry tomatoes, washed and dried
  • 20 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
  • 20 fresh basil leaves, rinsed and patted dry
  • ½ cup fresh pesto (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
  • For homemade pesto (optional):
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
  • ¼ cup toasted pine nuts (or walnuts)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: a few drops of fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Make the fresh pesto (if using homemade): In a food processor, combine 2 cups fresh basil leaves, ¼ cup toasted pine nuts, ½ cup grated Parmesan, and 1 minced garlic clove. Pulse a few times until coarsely chopped.
  2. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in ⅓ cup olive oil until smooth but still slightly textured. Season with salt, pepper, and a few drops of lemon juice to taste. Set aside.
  3. Prepare the ingredients: Wash and dry cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves thoroughly. Drain mozzarella balls well.
  4. Assemble the skewers: Thread one cherry tomato onto the skewer, followed by a fresh basil leaf (fold if large), then a mozzarella ball, and finish with another cherry tomato. Repeat until all skewers are assembled.
  5. Dress the skewers: Place assembled skewers on your serving platter. Drizzle lightly with extra virgin olive oil, then spoon or brush fresh pesto over each skewer just before serving.
  6. Final touch: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt or cracked black pepper over the skewers.

Notes

Assemble skewers close to serving time to keep basil fresh and avoid wilting. Store pesto in an airtight container with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent browning. For grilling, cook skewers 2 minutes per side on medium heat for a smoky flavor. Handle mozzarella gently to avoid tearing.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, fresh pesto, easy appetizer, party food, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, quick recipe

Find it online: https://oracooks.com/easy-5-ingredient-caprese-skewers-recipe-with-fresh-pesto-perfect-for-parties/