Save A festive and colorful appetizer featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves arranged in a stunning tree shape—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe was a hit at our last holiday party everyone loved the visual appeal and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
- Red cherry tomatoes: 20
- Green grape tomatoes (or green cherry tomatoes): 20
- Fresh basil leaves: 20
- Mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine): 20
- Extra virgin olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Balsamic glaze (optional): 1 tablespoon
- Sea salt: to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Rinse and dry the tomatoes and basil leaves. Pat the mozzarella balls dry with paper towels.
- Step 2:
- On each skewer, thread one red cherry tomato, one mini mozzarella ball, one green grape tomato, and one basil leaf. Alternate the order for visual variety if desired.
- Step 3:
- Arrange the finished skewers on a large serving platter or board in the shape of a Christmas tree, starting at the bottom and stacking rows upward in a triangle.
- Step 4:
- Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the skewers. Sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper.
- Step 5:
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor and festive shine (optional).
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Save My family always enjoys making this together during the holidays it brings us closer and adds fun to the preparations.
Required Tools
Small skewers or toothpicks, large serving platter or board, paper towels, small bowl for olive oil.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (mozzarella). Gluten-free. Always verify mozzarella ingredients for possible additives or allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories 50 per skewer Total Fat 3.5 g Carbohydrates 1.5 g Protein 2.5 g
Save This appetizer is simple yet impressive a perfect starter for your festive celebrations.
Common recipe questions
- → Can I use other tomatoes besides cherry and grape varieties?
Yes, you can substitute with small gold or yellow cherry tomatoes to add festive color and variety.
- → Is it necessary to use fresh basil leaves?
Fresh basil provides the best flavor and aroma, but baby spinach can be used as an alternative if preferred.
- → How should I store the skewers before serving?
Refrigerate the assembled skewers for up to 2 hours to keep ingredients fresh and flavors vibrant.
- → What is the best way to serve these skewers?
Arrange the skewers in a visually appealing tree shape on a large platter and drizzle with olive oil and optional balsamic glaze for added taste.
- → Are these skewers suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making this an excellent option for gluten-sensitive guests.