Save to Pins Festive and fresh, these whimsical star-shaped Caprese skewers combine juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil for an eye-catching appetizer perfect for any gathering.
I first made these for a family holiday party and they were a huge hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- Cheese: 200 g fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced 1 cm thick
- Vegetables: 16 cherry tomatoes, 16 fresh basil leaves
- Dressing: 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp balsamic glaze, Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Garnish: 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Using a small star-shaped cookie cutter, cut stars out of the mozzarella slices. You should get about 16 stars.
- Step 2:
- Thread one cherry tomato onto each cocktail skewer, followed by a fresh basil leaf folded in half, and finish with a mozzarella star at the top.
- Step 3:
- Arrange the skewers on a serving platter.
- Step 4:
- Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze over the skewers. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and optional chopped basil.
- Step 5:
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Save to Pins These skewers always bring smiles at our family gatherings and make for an easy make-ahead appetizer.
Notes
For extra flavor, rub the mozzarella stars with a cut garlic clove before assembling. Substitute baby bocconcini for mozzarella stars if you dont have a cookie cutter. Pair with a crisp Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon.
Required Tools
Small star-shaped cookie cutter, small skewers or toothpicks, sharp knife, serving platter
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (mozzarella). Gluten-free. Always check ingredient packaging for potential allergens or cross-contamination.
Save to Pins This appetizer is simple yet elegant, perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I make star-shaped mozzarella pieces?
Use a small star-shaped cookie cutter to cut the mozzarella slices into stars. This creates a fun and festive shape for the skewers.
- → Can I prepare these skewers in advance?
Yes, you can assemble them and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving to maintain freshness.
- → What can I substitute if I don’t have a star-shaped cutter?
Baby bocconcini cheese can be used as an alternative to star-shaped mozzarella for a similar texture and flavor.
- → What dressing complements these skewers best?
A simple drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- → Are these skewers suitable for dietary restrictions?
They are vegetarian and gluten-free, but note that they contain dairy from the mozzarella cheese.