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Fresh Nectarine Caprese Skewers with Basil Drizzle

fresh nectarine caprese skewers - featured image

A quick and refreshing summer snack featuring juicy nectarines, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, finished with a vibrant basil drizzle. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 medium fresh nectarines, ripe but firm, sliced into wedges
  • 12 oz (340g) mozzarella balls (Bocconcini or Ciliegine), drained
  • About 20 fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 12 bamboo skewers, about 6 inches long (soak in water 10 minutes if grilling)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry the nectarines. Slice each into 6-8 wedges, removing the pit. Aim for even slices for uniform skewers. (About 10 minutes)
  2. Open the mozzarella package and drain any excess liquid. Pat dry gently with a paper towel to avoid soggy skewers. (2 minutes)
  3. Rinse basil leaves under cool water. Lay them flat on a paper towel and pat dry to remove moisture. (3 minutes)
  4. In a food processor or mixing bowl, combine basil leaves, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth or whisk vigorously by hand until vibrant green and pourable. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. (5 minutes)
  5. On each bamboo skewer, thread one nectarine wedge, one mozzarella ball, and one basil leaf. Repeat the pattern until the skewer is full or you have 3-4 sets per skewer. Lay the skewers on a platter as you go. (10 minutes)
  6. Just before serving, spoon or drizzle the basil sauce evenly over the skewers. If making ahead, keep the drizzle separate and add it last to maintain freshness. (2 minutes)

Notes

Use ripe but firm nectarines to avoid mushy bites. Dry mozzarella and basil leaves well to prevent watery skewers. Assemble skewers just before serving to keep basil fresh. Basil drizzle can be made ahead and stored refrigerated up to 3 days. For grilling, soak skewers and grill 2-3 minutes per side, skipping basil drizzle and using balsamic glaze instead.

Nutrition

Keywords: nectarine, caprese, skewers, basil drizzle, summer snack, easy appetizer, fresh, mozzarella, basil, quick recipe