Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

Easy **caprese skewers** recipe! These gluten-free appetizers are quick, fresh, and delicious. Get the simple recipe and wow your guests!

Caprese Skewers: A Gluten-Free Delight

Looking for a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious appetizer? These caprese skewers are the answer! Easy to assemble and perfect for any occasion, they’re naturally gluten-free and packed with fresh flavors.

Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or simply craving a light bite, these skewers are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. For more gluten-free appetizer ideas, be sure to check out our Gluten-Free Artichoke Dip recipe – it’s another fantastic option that’s easy to prepare and always a hit!

Why We Love These Caprese Skewers

These aren’t just any appetizer; they’re a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients. Imagine mini mozzarella balls paired with fragrant basil and juicy cherry tomatoes, all drizzled with a tangy-sweet balsamic reduction. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite!

If you’re all about easy and healthy options, these skewers tick all the boxes. And if you’re looking for other light lunch or dinner ideas, why not try our vibrant Black Bean Pineapple Avocado Salsa? It’s another gluten-free recipe that’s full of fresh flavors.

These fresh and elegant bites pair perfectly with a cold glass of your favorite beverage, making them ideal for enjoying with friends and family. Plus, they’re so easy to customize! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients and make them your own.

How to Make Caprese Skewers: A Step-by-Step Guide

These Caprese Skewers are incredibly easy to assemble, making them perfect for any occasion. Follow these simple steps for a delightful gluten-free appetizer!

Step 1: Prepare the Balsamic Reduction

You have two options here: you can either use a store-bought balsamic reduction for convenience or easily make your own from scratch. Here’s how to make it:

  1. Pour 2 cups of balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan.
  2. Bring the vinegar to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium.
  3. Simmer for about 20 minutes, until the vinegar thickens to the consistency of thin maple syrup. You’ll know it’s ready when you can drag a spatula across the bottom of the pan and see the bottom for a second or two before the vinegar fills back in. Remember, it will continue to thicken as it cools.
  4. Pour the balsamic reduction into a small serving bowl and set aside to cool. This can be made up to 5 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Gluten-Free Tip: Ensure your balsamic vinegar is certified gluten-free if you are sensitive. Most pure balsamic vinegar is naturally gluten-free, but it’s always best to check!

Step 2: Assemble the Caprese Skewers

Now for the fun part! Thread the ingredients onto toothpicks in the following order:

  1. Start with a Ciliegine mozzarella cheese ball.
  2. Add a fresh basil leaf. If the leaf is large, fold it in half or into quarters for easier skewering and a nicer presentation.
  3. Finish with a juicy cherry tomato.
  4. Place the completed skewer on a serving platter and repeat with the remaining ingredients.

Step 3: Season the Skewers

Just before serving, lightly sprinkle the assembled skewers with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of the fresh ingredients.

Step 4: Drizzle with Balsamic Reduction

Drizzle the cooled balsamic reduction over the skewers. Be careful not to overdo it, as you want a delicate glaze, not a heavy coating. For those who want extra, you can also serve the skewers with a small bowl of balsamic reduction on the side.

Serve immediately and enjoy these delightful Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Drizzle!

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Ingredients for Gluten-Free Caprese Skewers

  • 2 cups balsamic vinegar
  • 10 oz cherry tomatoes
  • 8 oz Ciliegine mozzarella cheese, also called “cherry” size, I like Belgioso
  • .8 oz fresh basil leaves
  • salt and pepper
  • toothpicks

Gluten-Free Caprese Skewers: Nutritional Information

Enjoy these delightful Caprese Skewers, a naturally gluten-free appetizer! Each serving is packed with fresh flavors and offers a balanced nutritional profile:

  • Naturally Gluten-Free: This recipe uses naturally gluten-free ingredients, making it a perfect choice for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
  • Calories: Approximately 89 kcal per serving
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Protein: 4g – Provides essential amino acids for muscle support and overall health.
  • Fat: 4g – A moderate amount of healthy fats.
    • Saturated Fat: 1g
    • Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.02g
    • Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g
  • Cholesterol: 7mg
  • Sodium: 26mg – Naturally low in sodium. Adjust added salt to your preference.
  • Potassium: 105mg – An important electrolyte for maintaining healthy blood pressure.
  • Fiber: 0.2g – While not a significant source, fiber contributes to digestive health.
  • Sugar: 7g – Primarily from the natural sugars in tomatoes and balsamic reduction.
  • Vitamin A: 215IU – Supports vision and immune function.
  • Vitamin C: 6mg – An antioxidant that helps protect your body against damage from free radicals.
  • Calcium: 85mg – Essential for strong bones and teeth.
  • Iron: 1mg – Helps carry oxygen throughout your body.

Note: Nutritional values are estimates only. Please read our full nutrition information disclaimer.

Tips and Variations for Perfect Caprese Skewers

Here are some helpful tips and variations to make your Caprese Skewers even more enjoyable and adaptable to different dietary needs:

  • Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the Ciliegine mozzarella with dairy-free mozzarella balls to accommodate dairy sensitivities.
  • Vegan Option: Use vegan mozzarella balls and ensure your balsamic vinegar is vegan-friendly (some may use animal-derived products in the fining process).
  • Balsamic Reduction Alternatives: If you’re short on time, use a store-bought balsamic glaze. For a tangier twist, try a drizzle of lemon-herb vinaigrette.
  • Herb Variations: Experiment with different fresh herbs like mint or oregano for a unique flavor profile.
  • Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the skewers up to 12 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add the salt, pepper, and balsamic drizzle just before serving to prevent the basil from wilting.
  • Serving Suggestions: These skewers are fantastic on their own, but you can also serve them alongside a gluten-free pasta salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

How to Make Gluten-Free Caprese Skewers

For the balsamic drizzle:

Add 2 cups of balsamic vinegar to a small saucepan over high heat, then bring to a boil. Turn the heat down to medium and simmer until the vinegar reaches the consistency of thin maple syrup, about 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when you can see the bottom of the pan for a second or two after scraping a spatula across it. Pour the balsamic reduction into a small bowl and set aside to cool. This can be made and refrigerated up to 5 days ahead of time. Alternatively, you could use store-bought balsamic reduction (see notes).

For the skewers:

Thread a cheese ball onto a toothpick, followed by a basil leaf—fold it in half or into quarters if large. Finish with a cherry tomato, then place it onto a serving platter. Repeat with the remaining ingredients. Just before serving, sprinkle the skewers with salt and pepper, then drizzle with cooled balsamic reduction. Serve immediately.

Feel free to use store-bought balsamic reduction to save time!

Essential Equipment for This Recipe

To prepare this delicious gluten-free recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

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