Pin this A festive and colorful appetizer featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves arranged in a stunning tree shape—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This appetizer is always a hit at our holiday parties and brings smiles to everyone around the table.
Ingredients
- Produce: 20 red cherry tomatoes, 20 green grape tomatoes (or green cherry tomatoes), 20 fresh basil leaves
- Dairy: 20 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- Pantry: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional), Sea salt to taste, Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Rinse and dry the tomatoes and basil leaves. Pat the mozzarella balls dry with paper towels.
- Step 2:
- On each skewer, thread one red cherry tomato, one mini mozzarella ball, one green grape tomato, and one basil leaf. Alternate the order for visual variety if desired.
- Step 3:
- Arrange the finished skewers on a large serving platter or board in the shape of a Christmas tree, starting at the bottom and stacking rows upward in a triangle.
- Step 4:
- Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the skewers. Sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper.
- Step 5:
- (Optional) Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor and festive shine.
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Pin this My family loves gathering around to assemble these skewers together; it’s a fun holiday tradition everyone enjoys.
Required Tools
Small skewers or toothpicks, large serving platter or board, paper towels, small bowl (for olive oil)
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (mozzarella). Gluten-free. Always verify mozzarella ingredients for possible additives or allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 50 Total Fat: 3.5 g Carbohydrates: 1.5 g Protein: 2.5 g (per skewer)
Pin this These skewers bring a festive touch to any gathering and are best served fresh for maximum flavor and presentation.
Recipe FAQs
- → What types of tomatoes work best for these skewers?
Red cherry tomatoes and green grape or green cherry tomatoes provide the vibrant colors and firm texture needed for easy skewering and visual appeal.
- → Can I substitute basil with another herb?
Yes, baby spinach or fresh mint can be used as alternatives, offering unique flavors while maintaining the fresh herb element.
- → How should the skewers be stored before serving?
They can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours on a serving platter covered with plastic wrap to keep ingredients fresh and prevent drying.
- → Is balsamic glaze necessary to enhance the flavor?
While optional, balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy contrast that highlights the freshness of the tomatoes and creaminess of mozzarella.
- → What is the best way to assemble the skewers for a festive display?
Arrange the skewers in rows stacked upward forming a triangle or tree shape on a large platter, starting from the widest row at the base for a decorative presentation.