Marinated Mozzarella Tomato Basil Skewers Recipe
These Marinated Mozzarella Tomato Basil Skewers are a fresh and flavorful appetizer perfect for parties or casual gatherings. Fresh mozzarella pieces are marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs, then combined with grape tomatoes and basil on skewers for a bite-sized treat bursting with classic Italian flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 40 skewers
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Marinade and Skewers
- 16 oz fresh mozzarella log
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper (optional)
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp cracked black pepper
- 1/4 tsp sea salt, adjust to taste
Skewers Assembly
- 40 grape tomatoes (may vary slightly)
- 2 oz fresh basil leaves
- 40 skewers or toothpicks, 5-6 inches long
Instructions
- Slice and Marinate Mozzarella: Slice the 16 oz mozzarella log into equal pieces (some stores sell pre-sliced). Cut each piece into about 4-6 one-inch cubes, with end pieces sliced slightly fewer. Toss the mozzarella cubes with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, oregano, sea salt, cracked black pepper, and crushed red pepper if using. Ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Chill and marinate for at least 30 minutes up to 24 hours, tossing occasionally if marinating more than a couple of hours.
- Prepare Basil and Tomatoes: When ready to assemble, toss the marinated mozzarella once more. If basil leaves are large, chop them into smaller pieces to yield about 40 pieces for skewering. Rinse and dry grape tomatoes.
- Assemble Skewers: Thread onto each skewer one piece of mozzarella, followed by a piece of basil leaf, then a grape tomato, another basil leaf, and finish with another mozzarella piece. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used up.
- Store or Serve: Arrange the skewers on a serving platter or in a sealed container. If stacking layers, add a piece of wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. Chill until ready to serve or serve immediately at room temperature.
- Storage: These skewers will stay fresh for 2-3 days when sealed and refrigerated but are best enjoyed freshly made for optimal flavor and texture.
Notes
- Marinate mozzarella for a minimum of 30 minutes for full flavor absorption; longer marination enhances taste.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to preference.
- Optionally add crushed red pepper for a slight kick of heat.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for best results.