Imagine biting into a perfect harmony of flavors - sweet roasted cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant fresh basil, all drizzled with a luxurious balsamic reduction. These Roasted Tomato Caprese Skewers are not just an appetizer; they're a culinary experience that will transport you straight to the sun-drenched landscapes of Italy. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, planning a summer picnic, or simply craving a gourmet bite, these skewers are guaranteed to impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- Cherry tomatoes
- Fresh mozzarella balls
- Fresh basil leaves
- Olive oil
- Balsamic reduction
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help to roast the cherry tomatoes perfectly, enhancing their natural sweetness.
- Wash the cherry tomatoes under cold water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Ensure they are completely dry to promote even roasting.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the cherry tomatoes with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure each tomato is evenly coated for optimal flavor.
- Spread the seasoned cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure they are in a single layer to allow for even roasting.
- Roast the tomatoes in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are blistered and slightly caramelized. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- While the tomatoes are roasting, prepare the fresh mozzarella balls and basil leaves. If the mozzarella balls are large, consider cutting them in half for easier assembly.
- Once the tomatoes are done roasting, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. This will make them easier to handle when assembling the skewers.
- To assemble the skewers, take a skewer or toothpick and thread one roasted cherry tomato, followed by a fresh mozzarella ball, and then a fresh basil leaf. Repeat this process until the skewer is filled, leaving some space at the ends for easy handling.
- Arrange the assembled skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil and a generous amount of balsamic reduction for added flavor.
- Finish with a sprinkle of salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Serve the Roasted Tomato Caprese Skewers warm or at room temperature as a delightful appetizer or side dish.
Tips
- Choose high-quality ingredients: Select ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella for the best flavor.
- Pat tomatoes completely dry before roasting to ensure they caramelize instead of steam.
- Use parchment paper when roasting to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give tomatoes space to roast evenly.
- Let roasted tomatoes cool slightly before assembling to prevent cheese from melting.
- For a gourmet touch, use a good quality balsamic reduction or make your own.
- Serve immediately or at room temperature for the most vibrant taste and presentation.
- Experiment with different herb variations like adding a small piece of fresh oregano or thyme.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 75kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
