Marinated Mozzarella Tomato Basil Skewers

Every summer, when the sun is shining and friends gather for backyard barbecues, I always find myself craving fresh, vibrant flavors. That’s when I whip up my favorite appetizer: Marinated Mozzarella Tomato Basil Skewers. They’re not only easy to make, but they’re also a hit at any gathering, bringing together the delightful trio of fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil.

Picture yourself on a warm evening, surrounded by laughter and good company, as you present these colorful skewers. The marinated mozzarella glistens in the sun, enticing everyone with its rich flavor, while the bright red tomatoes pop against the green basil. Each bite offers a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and herbaceous notes that dance on the palate. I love how simple ingredients can transform into something so delightful!

As I prepare these skewers, I can’t help but reminisce about summer picnics, where this dish became a staple. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a tradition that brings back wonderful memories. The best part? You can prepare them in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an ideal dish for busy hosts like us. Whether it’s a family gathering or an impromptu dinner party, Marinated Mozzarella Tomato Basil Skewers are sure to impress.

So if you’re ready to elevate your appetizer game and bring a little summer magic to your table, let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

What You’ll Need for Marinated Mozzarella Tomato Basil Skewers

When it comes to preparing Marinated Mozzarella Tomato Basil Skewers, the ingredient selection is key to achieving vibrant flavors. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious balance. The fresh mozzarella is creamy and rich, while the grape tomatoes bring a juicy burst of sweetness. Fresh basil adds an aromatic touch that ties everything together, and the olive oil and balsamic vinegar work their magic in the marinade. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need.

• 16 oz fresh mozzarella log: This creamy cheese offers a rich texture that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil: A good quality olive oil enhances the flavor of the marinade, adding depth and richness.
• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar: The tangy sweetness of balsamic vinegar elevates the overall taste and balances the richness of the mozzarella.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic adds a savory kick that infuses the marinade with flavor.
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper, optional: A hint of heat that can be adjusted to your preference for a little extra zing.
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings an herbaceous note to the dish.
• 1/2 tsp oregano: Oregano adds a classic Italian flavor that complements the basil and mozzarella.
• 1/4 tsp cracked pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds a nice touch of spice.
• 1/4 tsp sea salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the ingredients and should be adjusted to taste.
• 40 grape tomatoes: These bite-sized tomatoes provide sweetness and juiciness to the skewers.
• 2 oz fresh basil leaves: The aromatic basil adds freshness and a beautiful aroma.
• 40 5-6 inch skewers/toothpicks: Essential for assembling the skewers, allowing you to create a visually appealing presentation.

Putting Together Marinated Mozzarella Tomato Basil Skewers

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s get started on assembling these delightful Marinated Mozzarella Tomato Basil Skewers. It’s a fun and engaging process that allows you to really enjoy the flavors and aromas as you create. Follow these detailed steps to make perfect skewers!

1. Begin by slicing the 16 oz fresh mozzarella log into equal pieces. Some stores offer pre-sliced options, but if you’re slicing yourself, aim for about 4 to 6 one-inch pieces per slice. Remember that the end pieces will be smaller, yielding about 3 or 4 pieces. The goal is to have uniform sizes for even marination.
2. Next, toss the diced mozzarella pieces into a mixing bowl. Add in the 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil, 1 tsp balsamic vinegar, 2 minced garlic cloves, and season with the 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp oregano, 1/4 tsp cracked pepper, and 1/4 tsp sea salt. Ensure each piece is well-coated with the marinade. This step is crucial for infusing flavor into the cheese.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate. Allow the mozzarella to chill and marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, letting it sit for up to 24 hours works wonders. If marinating longer than an hour, give the mozzarella a gentle toss every couple of hours to ensure even flavor distribution.
4. When you’re ready to assemble the skewers, take the bowl out of the fridge and give the mozzarella one last toss. This ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed before you start. Next, prepare the 2 oz fresh basil leaves. If the leaves are large, chop them into smaller pieces to yield about 40 pieces, as each skewer will need a few.
5. To assemble the skewers, take a 5-6 inch skewer or toothpick and thread a slice of mozzarella onto it. Follow with a piece of basil leaf and then a grape tomato. For a beautiful presentation and flavor, add another basil leaf and finish with another piece of mozzarella. Repeat this process until all the ingredients have been used up.
6. Once all your skewers are assembled, place them on a serving platter. If you’re preparing them in advance, you could use a sealed container with wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. This will keep them fresh and intact until serving time.
7. Finally, when it’s time to serve, you can either chill the skewers in the fridge or serve them immediately. They are best enjoyed fresh, but they can stay fresh for 2 to 3 days if sealed in the refrigerator.

Substitutions and Tips

Having some handy tips can elevate your experience with Marinated Mozzarella Tomato Basil Skewers. Here are some great suggestions to keep in mind:

• Storage: Keep your skewers in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They can last for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Freezing: These skewers are best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended.
• Pairing: Serve these skewers as a stunning appetizer alongside a refreshing salad or a charcuterie board.
• Fresh Ingredients: Always use the freshest ingredients possible for the best flavor. Look for ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil.
• Marinating Tips: If you have time, marinate the mozzarella overnight for enhanced flavor.
• Presentation: For an elegant touch, arrange the skewers on a platter with some fresh greens and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Best Served With

• Picnics: Pack these skewers for a summer picnic in the park. They’re portable and easy to eat!
• Barbecues: These skewers are a fantastic addition to any backyard barbecue, offering a refreshing contrast to grilled meats.
• Wine Nights: Pair them with a crisp white wine for a simple yet elegant wine and cheese night.
• Light Lunch: Enjoy them on a bed of mixed greens for a light and satisfying lunch option.
• Celebrations: Serve these skewers at birthdays, weddings, or festive gatherings—they’re sure to impress!
• Seasonal Pairings: In summer, pair them with a fresh fruit salad, or in fall, with roasted vegetables for a delightful contrast.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Marinated Mozzarella Tomato Basil Skewers are a delightful way to bring fresh flavors to your table. With their simple ingredients and beautiful presentation, they make every gathering feel special. I encourage you to try making these skewers for your next event or even as a light snack at home. They’re not only delicious but also a wonderful way to celebrate the tastes of summer with family and friends.

Marinated Mozzarella Tomato Basil Skewers

Indulge in the fresh, vibrant flavors of Marinated Mozzarella Tomato Basil Skewers, a perfect appetizer for any gathering. Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil create a delightful combination that is both easy and impressive. This colorful dish is great for picnics, parties, and casual dining—ideal for satisfying your cravings tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Appetizers

Cuisine Italian

Servings 40 skewers

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 16 oz Fresh mozzarella log
• 1/3 cup Extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp Balsamic vinegar
• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• 1/4 tsp Crushed red pepper optional
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp Oregano
• 1/4 tsp Cracked pepper
• 1/4 tsp Sea salt more or less to taste
• 40 Grape tomatoes this may vary
• 2 oz Fresh basil leaves
• 40 5-6 inch Skewers/toothpicks

Instructions

 

• Slice a 16 oz. fresh mozzarella log into equal pieces. Some groceries sell them pre-sliced! Slice each piece into about 4-6 one inch pieces. The end pieces will only cut into about 3 or 4. Toss the mozzarella pieces with the 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil, 1 tsp balsamic vinegar, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp oregano, 1/4 tsp cracked pepper, and 1/4 tsp sea salt and evenly coat.
• Chill to marinate for at least 30 minutes and up to about 24 hours. If marinating more than an hour or two, toss the mozzarella a few times every couple of hours or so.
• When ready to prep the skewers, toss the mozzarella one last time. Chop the 2 oz. fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces if the leaves are very large to make about 40 pieces.
• Thread a slice of mozzarella, a piece of basil leaf, one grape tomato, another basil leaf, and another piece of mozzarella. Continue until all the mozzarella is gone.
• Place skewers on a serving platter or into a container that can be sealed. Add a piece of wax paper between layers of skewers. Chill until ready to serve or serve immediately.
• Skewers will stay fresh for 2-3 days sealed in the refrigerator, but are best freshly made.

Notes

• Tip 1: Save the extra olive oil at the end. This flavorful mixture of oil and vinegar is perfect as a salad dressing, to dip bread in, or to brush over meat you are going to cook.
• Tip 2: If you use small mozzarella balls, or ciliegine, you will end up with about 48 pieces in 16 oz., which will make 24 skewers if adding two pieces of cheese to each.
• Tip 3: Try to assemble the mozzarella skewers within about an hour or so of serving so that the mozzarella is still moist from the marinade.
• Tip 4: You can skip the skewers and toss all of the ingredients together to serve as a salad or to spoon over bread.

Keyword Easy Skewer Recipe, Fresh Mozzarella Dish, Mozzarella Skewers, Tomato Basil Appetizer

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Meet Romina Scott

Welcome to my kitchen. I founded Recipes By Romina with a simple goal: to share the fresh, vibrant, and reliable flavors that I love most. I personally develop and approve every single dish on this site to ensure it is not only delicious but also easy for you to recreate at home. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dessert, I hope this recipe inspires you to grab an apron and get cooking!