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Fresh Caprese Skewers Recipe with Easy Zesty Pesto Drizzle for Summer Parties

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These Fresh Caprese Skewers with Zesty Pesto Drizzle are quick, easy, and perfect for summer parties. They combine ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a bright, tangy pesto for a refreshing appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pint (300g) cherry tomatoes, washed and halved if large
  • 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
  • 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves
  • For the Zesty Pesto Drizzle:
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves (packed)
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts as an alternative)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • About 20 wooden skewers

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pesto: In a food processor, combine 1 cup fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Pulse a few times to chop ingredients.
  2. Slowly stream in olive oil while the processor is running until the pesto reaches a smooth but slightly chunky consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
  3. Thread one cherry tomato onto a skewer, followed by a folded basil leaf, then a mozzarella ball. Repeat the pattern until the skewer is full but not overcrowded (usually 3-4 pieces per skewer).
  4. Arrange the skewers neatly on a platter.
  5. Drizzle the zesty pesto over the skewers just before serving or serve the pesto on the side for dipping.

Notes

Soak wooden skewers in water for 15 minutes before threading to prevent burning if grilling. Assemble skewers close to serving time to keep basil fresh. Pesto can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. For a smoky flavor, grill skewers 1-2 minutes per side carefully.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, pesto drizzle, summer appetizer, easy party food, fresh basil, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes

Find it online: https://juliamadeit.com/fresh-caprese-skewers-recipe-with-easy-zesty-pesto-drizzle-for-summer-parties/