Caprese Skewers: A Refreshing Twist on BBQ Side Dishes
When it comes to BBQs, it's not just about the meats and
grilled veggies. A great BBQ spread is incomplete without some delicious and
vibrant side dishes. One such side dish that never fails to impress is Caprese
Skewers. These delightful skewers are a perfect blend of fresh flavors, making
them an instant hit at any summer gathering or backyard barbecue. Join us as we
take you through a simple yet scrumptious recipe for Caprese Skewers that will
leave your guests craving for more.
Ingredients:
- Cherry
tomatoes (about 20)
- Mozzarella
balls (ciliegine or bocconcini) - approximately 20
- Fresh
basil leaves - around 20
- Balsamic
glaze
- Extra
virgin olive oil
- Salt
and pepper, to taste
- Wooden
skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
Instructions:
- Prepare
the ingredients:
- Rinse
the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves under cold water.
- Drain
the mozzarella balls if necessary.
- Assemble
the skewers:
- Take
a soaked wooden skewer and thread a cherry tomato onto it, followed by a
basil leaf, and then a mozzarella ball.
- Repeat
the process until you have filled the skewer.
- Continue
assembling the remaining skewers.
- Season
the skewers:
- Place
the prepared skewers on a serving platter.
- Drizzle
a generous amount of balsamic glaze over the skewers.
- Lightly
drizzle extra virgin olive oil on top.
- Season
with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
- Serve
and enjoy:
- Your
Caprese Skewers are ready to be served.
- Place
the platter in the center of the table or on the buffet spread.
- Encourage
your guests to drizzle a little more balsamic glaze or olive oil on their
skewers if desired.
- Serve
the skewers as a side dish with grilled meats, burgers, or alongside other
BBQ favorites.
Optional variations:
- Add
a twist of sweetness: Include fresh or grilled peach slices or
strawberries between the tomatoes and mozzarella balls for a delightful
burst of sweetness.
- Add
a crunch: Thread small pieces of cucumber or bell peppers along with the
other ingredients to add a refreshing crunch to each bite.
- Go
for a Mediterranean touch: Replace the balsamic glaze with a drizzle of
homemade pesto sauce or sprinkle some dried oregano over the assembled
skewers.
Caprese Skewers are a simple yet elegant side dish that
brings together the classic flavors of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. These
refreshing skewers are not only visually appealing but also incredibly
delicious. So, the next time you're hosting a BBQ or attending a potluck,
surprise everyone with these vibrant and tasty Caprese Skewers. Your guests
will appreciate the burst of flavors and the beautiful presentation that will
make any summer gathering even more memorable.