Pin It 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 appetizer has become a holiday tradition in my family, bringing everyone together to enjoy fresh flavors in a fun shape.
Ingredients
- Produce: 20 red cherry tomatoes, 20 green grape tomatoes (or green cherry tomatoes), 20 fresh basil leaves
- Dairy: 20 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- Pantry: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional), 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:
- (Optional) Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor and festive shine.
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Pin It My family always enjoys gathering around this appetizer, admiring the tree shape before digging in.
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
Per skewer: 50 Calories, 3.5 g Total Fat, 1.5 g Carbohydrates, 2.5 g Protein
Pin It This recipe offers a fresh and festive starter that’s both beautiful and delicious, perfect for any holiday celebration.
Recipe FAQs
- → What tomatoes work best for these skewers?
Red cherry tomatoes and green grape or cherry tomatoes provide the ideal size and color contrast for these skewers.
- → Can I substitute basil with another herb?
Yes, baby spinach can be used as a mild alternative, offering a different but pleasant flavor.
- → How should I serve these skewers for best presentation?
Arrange the skewers on a large platter in a Christmas tree shape, stacking rows upward in a triangle for festive appeal.
- → Is the balsamic glaze necessary?
The balsamic glaze is optional but adds a sweet tangy brightness and festive shine to the skewers.
- → How long can the skewers be prepared in advance?
They can be assembled and refrigerated for up to 2 hours but are freshest when served soon after preparation.