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.
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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
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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.
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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.
