There’s something about food served on sticks that people seem to instantly love. Case in point, the antipasto skewers I shared last year were one of your run away favorite posts of the year! (And, guys, they’re so damn tasty!)
Spearing yummy little bites onto sticks is also a super easy way to serve up delicious, crowd-pleasing party appetizers. You can make them in advance, mix and match a million different flavor combinations and keep everyone begging for more.
I made these caprese skewers as a play on the classic tomato, mozzarella and basil combination, but swapping out the tomatoes for blackberries and adding a big crunch with a chunk of cucumber. Add a big drizzle of balsamic glaze (which is one of my favorite things ever) and you’ve got a hit with these ones.
I opted to pick up fresh mozzarella balls that were marinated and seasoned, but I would suggest tossing yours in a bit of olive oil with a pinch of Italian seasoning if you can’t find those that are already pre-seasoned. I also prefer English cucumbers with the skin left on for that extra crunch.
You can easily make these the night or the morning before your party, then just keep them chilled. Leftovers will keep for a couple days in the fridge, just be sure not to drizzle the balsamic glaze on top until serving to keep them freshest.
Give them a try at your next party or backyard barbecue! Your friends are seriously going to love them.
[Art direction + styling by Cyd Converse | Photos by Alice G. Patterson.]
Blackberry Cucumber Caprese Skewers
Looking for easy party appetizer recipes? Look no further than these delicious blackberry cucumber caprese skewers!
Ingredients
- 25 mini fresh mozzarella balls
- 25 blackberries
- 25 basil leaves
- 25 cucumber chunks
- Balsamic glaze
- Bamboo skewers
Instructions
- Using 3″ bamboo skewers or similar, layer your ingredients starting with the mozzarella balls, then a folded basil leaf followed by a blackberry and a chunk of cucumber.
- Line a tray with your finished skewers and refrigerate or serve right away.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze right before serving.
Notes
If you're serving these as a party appetizer, maximize your prep time by preparing these the night before or earlier in the day. Hold off on adding the balsamic drizzle until just before serving.
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what spice do you have sprinkled on the cheese?
I generally use the marinated mozzarella balls! Otherwise you can toss them in a bit of olive oil with Italian seasoning and even a tiny pinch of red pepper flake if you like!
Couldn’t get to supermarket for fresh mozzarella but rolled goat cheese into balls. Hug hit! So refreshing and light!
What wine can you pair with these? I have a wine pairing party too go to and would love to make these.
I made these for a neighborhood get together and everyone went crazy for them. Huge hit!
I love hearing that – thank you so much for sharing, Caitlin!
Love these skewers! Such a delicious combo!
Thanks, Steph! They’re one of my favorites.
THESE LOOK AMAZING. I CAN NOT WAIT TO TRY THEM.
Thanks, Becky! They’re so perfect for summer!
Yum!!! I love everything about these!! They would be a hit for any occasion!
They’re always a crowd pleaser!
These were not only easy to prepare, but incredibly delicious to eat! Even my picky eaters couldn’t get enough!
Everyone always loves that blackberry, cucumber, balsamic combo! Thanks, Sara!
Such a delicious take on traditional caprese! We loved it!
Thanks, Courtney! They’re a favorite of ours!
What’s in the balsamic glaze!!??? I’m at the store now.
Hey Addie! You can make your own with just balsamic vinegar and sugar (reduced down over high heat in a saucepan)…or you can cheat like I did and buy it premade. ;-) Usually you’ll find it near the vinegars, worcestershire sauce, etc. I hope this helps!
OMG so yummy! Love the new site too Cyd!
Thanks, Rachel! They are so yummy. And I am so glad the new site is launched – glad you love it! xoxo
Blackberries + cucumber…this does sound tempting. Will try it and report back :)
Thanks, Gemma! I hope you give it a try and enjoy these!