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Fresh Caprese Skewers with Basil Oil and Balsamic Pearls

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A fresh and light appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves on skewers, dressed with homemade basil oil and tangy balsamic pearls for a gourmet touch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 cherry tomatoes, ripe and firm
  • 20 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
  • 20 small fresh basil leaves, washed and dried
  • Basil Oil:
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Balsamic Pearls:
  • 1/2 cup good quality balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon agar-agar powder
  • About 20 wooden skewers, 4-inch length

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Basil Oil (10 minutes): In a food processor, combine 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves, 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic (if using), and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and vibrant green. For a silky texture, strain the oil through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl. Set aside.
  2. Make the Balsamic Pearls (15 minutes): In a small saucepan, heat 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar and sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon agar-agar powder. Whisk well, bring to a gentle boil, and simmer for 1-2 minutes until the agar-agar dissolves completely.
  3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly (about 5 minutes). Using a dropper or small spoon, drop small droplets onto a chilled plate lined with parchment paper. Allow droplets to set into pearls for about 10 minutes. Once firm, gently lift them off and transfer to a small bowl in the refrigerator.
  4. Prep the Skewers (10 minutes): Drain the mozzarella balls well. Rinse and pat dry the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves.
  5. Assemble each skewer by threading one cherry tomato, one mozzarella ball, and one basil leaf. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
  6. Dress and Serve (5 minutes): Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with basil oil and scatter balsamic pearls over the top just before serving.

Notes

Garlic in basil oil is optional. If agar-agar is unavailable, use balsamic glaze instead of pearls. Assemble skewers just before serving for freshness. Skewers can be prepared 30 minutes ahead and refrigerated covered, but add basil oil and balsamic pearls just before serving. For a dairy-free version, substitute mozzarella with firm tofu cubes marinated in olive oil and herbs.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, basil oil, balsamic pearls, fresh appetizer, easy recipe, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, party food, gluten-free, vegetarian

Find it online: https://goldensimmer.com/fresh-caprese-skewers-recipe-easy-homemade-basil-oil-and-balsamic-pearls/