Save Festive, fresh, and vibrant skewers featuring cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, styled in a charming Christmas tree shape – the perfect holiday appetizer.
I first made these skewers for a family holiday party and they were an instant hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- Cherry Tomatoes: 24
- Fresh Basil Leaves: 24 large leaves
- Mini Mozzarella Balls: 24 bocconcini or ciliegine
- Extra-virgin Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Balsamic Glaze: 1 tablespoon
- Sea Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Fresh Rosemary Sprigs: for the tree trunk and decoration
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and pat dry the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves.
- Step 2:
- Drain the mozzarella balls and gently pat them dry.
- Step 3:
- On each wooden skewer thread ingredients in the following order to mimic a tree: 1 cherry tomato 1 basil leaf (folded if large) 1 mozzarella ball 1 basil leaf 1 cherry tomato 1 basil leaf 1 mozzarella ball.
- Step 4:
- Arrange the skewers on a large platter in a triangular (tree) shape.
- Step 5:
- Place rosemary sprigs at the base to resemble the tree trunk and tuck a few extra sprigs among the skewers for a festive look.
- Step 6:
- Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze over the skewers.
- Step 7:
- Sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper. Serve immediately.
Save This recipe always brings my family together around the table during the holidays with smiles and compliments.
Notes
For added color use a mix of red and yellow cherry tomatoes. Swap balsamic glaze for pesto if desired. To make ahead assemble skewers and refrigerate (without dressing); add oil and glaze just before serving. Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio.
Required Tools
Wooden skewers (6 8 inches) Large serving platter Small bowl for olive oil and glaze
Allergen Information
Contains dairy mozzarella Gluten-free Always double-check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Save These skewers are a festive and healthy appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests every holiday season.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I assemble the skewers to resemble a Christmas tree?
Thread cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and mozzarella balls alternately on wooden skewers in a triangular shape, finishing by placing rosemary sprigs as the trunk and decoration.
- → Can I prepare these skewers in advance?
Yes, assemble the skewers and refrigerate without dressing. Add olive oil and balsamic glaze just before serving for optimal freshness.
- → Are there any ingredient substitutions for balsamic glaze?
Pesto can be used as an alternative drizzle for a different flavor profile while maintaining the fresh taste.
- → What is the best way to keep basil leaves fresh in the skewers?
Wash and dry basil leaves thoroughly before assembling, and keep the skewers chilled until serving to maintain freshness.
- → Do these skewers accommodate dietary restrictions?
They are vegetarian and gluten-free, containing dairy from mozzarella. Always check ingredient labels if allergens are a concern.