Strawberry Basil Caprese Skewers

Name: Strawberry Basil Caprese Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8 skewers
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled; 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)

Highlighted under: Fast-Track Meal Recipes

I'm really excited to share my Strawberry Basil Caprese Skewers with you! This fresh appetizer has become a staple at my gatherings because it balances sweet strawberries, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil beautifully. The vibrant colors make it visually appealing, while the flavors create a delightful burst in every bite. Plus, they are super easy to assemble, making them perfect for both casual get-togethers and elegant parties. You won’t believe how quickly these disappear!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-13T11:59:30.529Z

Creating these Strawberry Basil Caprese Skewers was inspired by my love for simple, fresh ingredients. I found that pairing strawberries with mozzarella is a match made in heaven! The sweetness of the strawberries combined with the rich creaminess of the mozzarella creates a perfect harmony. I often drizzle some balsamic glaze on top to elevate the flavor even more.

What surprised me most was how quickly they come together! In just 15 minutes, I can prepare a stunning appetizer that impresses guests. I use toothpicks or small skewers for easy assembly, and it’s a fun activity to involve kids in the kitchen. Everyone loves making their own combinations!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A refreshing twist on a classic Caprese salad
Bright and beautiful presentation for any occasion
Combines sweet, savory, and creamy flavors in every bite

      

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

The freshness of the ingredients in Strawberry Basil Caprese Skewers is crucial to achieving vibrant flavors. Select ripe strawberries—they should be firm yet slightly soft to the touch. This will ensure a juicy burst of sweetness. The mozzarella balls, or bocconcini, should be fresh and slightly creamy. If you can find burrata, that would elevate the dish even further, as its rich creaminess pairs wonderfully with the strawberries and basil.

Basil leaves play a pivotal role in balancing the sweet and savory elements of this appetizer. When selecting basil, look for vibrant, dark green leaves without blemishes. Since the leaves can bruise easily, handle them gently to preserve their aromatic oils. I recommend using large leaves for presentation, but you can tear them in half if you prefer smaller bites.

Skewer Assembly Insights

Assembling the skewers is where the fun begins! Use wooden or metal skewers, but if you opt for wooden ones, consider soaking them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent them from burning on the grill. If you want to mix things up, alternate the order of ingredients—try adding a cherry tomato or a slice of prosciutto for extra flavor. Just keep in mind that these additions might alter the overall balance of sweetness and savory tones.

Leave a small gap at the end of each skewer to make them easy to hold and eat. Aim for a visually appealing arrangement, as the bright red strawberries, glossy mozzarella, and vibrant green basil create a beautiful contrast. Don't forget to stagger the ingredients on the skewer, which allows for even spacing and ensures that every bite contains a combination of all the flavors.

Ingredients

For the Skewers

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled
1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
1 cup fresh basil leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)

Assemble the ingredients on skewers for a delicious treat!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

If you haven’t already, hull the strawberries and drain the mozzarella balls. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best flavor.

Assemble the Skewers

On each skewer, thread a strawberry, followed by a basil leaf, and then a mozzarella ball. Repeat this until the skewer is filled, leaving a little space at the end for holding.

Season and Serve

Once assembled, sprinkle with a little salt and pepper. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired, then serve immediately or chill until ready to enjoy.

These skewers are best served fresh. Enjoy your delightful creation!

Pro Tips

For a fun variation, try substituting the strawberries with chopped peaches or nectarines during summer.

Storage Tips and Make-Ahead Options

These skewers are best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to make them ahead of time, you can prepare the individual components a few hours in advance. Store hulled strawberries, drained mozzarella, and washed basil leaves separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the skewers no more than one hour before serving to prevent the basil from wilting and the strawberries from becoming soggy.

If you have leftovers, store the assembled skewers in a single layer, covered with plastic wrap. They can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a day. However, it's recommended to eat them sooner for the best flavor and texture. The balsamic glaze can be added right before serving to keep the skewers from becoming too soggy.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While the classic combination of strawberry, basil, and mozzarella is delightful, consider experimenting with other fruits like peaches or apples for a different flavor profile. You can also use different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, for a tangy twist. For an added crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top before serving.

Serve these skewers as a fun appetizer at a brunch, during a summer barbecue, or alongside a charcuterie board. Pair them with a sparkling drink or a light white wine to complement the flavors. You could also serve them on a bed of mixed greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

It's best to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture, but if frozen is all you have, thaw them completely and drain excess moisture.

→ How do I store leftover skewers?

Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days without the balsamic glaze to keep them fresh.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the skewers a few hours in advance, but wait to drizzle the balsamic glaze until just before serving.

→ What else can I put on the skewers?

Feel free to add cherry tomatoes or different types of cheeses to customize your skewers.