For a quick yet flavorful appetizer, Caprese skewers with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and olives are the perfect choice. This simple combination of fresh and colorful ingredients is ideal for any occasion, offering a burst of Mediterranean flavors that will delight your guests.
Preparation Time
Preparration: 15 minutes
Cooking: None
Difficulty: Very Easy
Ingredients for 4 people
- 16 cherry tomatoes
- 16 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 16 pitted black or green olives
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnishing
- 8 toothpicks or short skewers
Method
- Ingredient Preparation:
Wash the cherry tomatoes and dry them. Drain the mozzarella and olives.
- Assembling the Skewers:
Thread a cherry tomato, a mozzarella ball, and an olive onto each skewer. Repeat this process until all skewers are complete.
- Dressing:
Arrange the skewers on a serving plate. In a small bowl, mix the extra virgin olive oil with balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the skewers and let sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Finishing and Serving:
Garnish the skewers with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Dish History
Caprese skewers are inspired by the classic Caprese salad from the Isle of Capri, renowned for its simplicity and quality ingredients: tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. The addition of olives introduces a touch of Mediterranean flavor that further enriches this delight.
Storage Tips
The skewers are best enjoyed immediately after preparation to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. However, they can be stored in the refrigerator for a few hours covered with plastic wrap.
Wine Pairings
- Alcoholic: A sparkling Prosecco or a fresh Vermentino.
- Non-alcoholic: A sparkling non-alcoholic white wine.
Beer Pairings
- Alcoholic: A light and fresh Lager.
- Non-alcoholic: A light non-alcoholic beer.
Cocktail Pairings
- Alcoholic: An Aperol Spritz, for a thoroughly Italian aperitif.
- Non-alcoholic: An orange and grapefruit non-alcoholic cocktail.
These Caprese skewers offer an elegant and tasty way to start an evening, combining freshness and simplicity of ingredients for a result that is always a guaranteed success.
Enjoy your meal and Buon Appetito!
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