Pin Festive, fresh, and vibrant skewers featuring cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, styled in a charming Christmas tree shape — the perfect holiday appetizer.
I enjoy preparing these skewers for holiday gatherings as they bring a fun and fresh touch to the table.
Ingredients
- Cherry tomatoes: 24
- Fresh basil leaves: 24 large
- Mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine): 24
- 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.
Pin 
This recipe always brings smiles at our family holiday parties and gets everyone chatting about the festive presentation.
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.
Pin These skewers are a delightful holiday treat that’s quick to make and sure to impress your guests.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use different types of tomatoes?
Yes, mixing red and yellow cherry tomatoes adds extra color and sweetness to the skewers.
- → How do I prevent the mozzarella from being watery?
Drain and gently pat mozzarella balls dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture on the skewers.
- → What can I substitute for balsamic glaze?
Pesto or a light drizzle of aged balsamic vinegar works well as alternatives for a different flavor profile.
- → Are these skewers suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes, they are vegetarian and gluten-free, but contain dairy from the mozzarella.
- → Can skewers be prepared ahead of time?
Assemble the skewers and refrigerate without the olive oil and glaze; add dressings just before serving.