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Fresh Red White and Blue Caprese Skewers Recipe Easy Patriotic Appetizer with Balsamic Glaze

red white and blue caprese skewers - featured image

A quick and easy patriotic appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, blueberries, and basil on skewers, finished with a sweet balsamic glaze. Perfect for summer gatherings and holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 cherry tomatoes
  • 20 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
  • 20 fresh blueberries
  • 20 fresh basil leaves
  • 1 cup (240 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) honey or brown sugar
  • Extra virgin olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Wooden skewers or toothpicks (3-inch bamboo skewers recommended)

Instructions

  1. Make the balsamic glaze: Pour 1 cup (240 ml) of balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of honey or brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches a gentle boil.
  2. Reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Set aside to cool.
  3. Prep the ingredients: Rinse 20 cherry tomatoes and 20 fresh blueberries under cold water. Pat dry with a kitchen towel.
  4. Tear 20 fresh basil leaves into halves if large, or use whole if small. Drain 20 mozzarella balls from the liquid and pat dry gently.
  5. Assemble the skewers: On each skewer, thread one cherry tomato, followed by a mozzarella ball, a basil leaf, and finish with a blueberry.
  6. Arrange the skewers on your serving platter. Lightly drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  7. Drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze over the skewers in a zigzag pattern. Serve immediately or chill for up to 2 hours before serving.

Notes

Pat mozzarella dry to prevent sogginess. Assemble skewers shortly before serving for best freshness. Balsamic glaze can be made ahead and reheated gently. If blueberries are out of season, substitute with blackberries, grapes, or pomegranate seeds. For dairy-free, use marinated tofu or plant-based cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: caprese skewers, patriotic appetizer, balsamic glaze, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, blueberries, summer recipe, easy appetizer, Fourth of July