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.
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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
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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.
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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.
