These Halloween Caprese Skewers are a fun twist on the classic salad! You get fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil all dressed up for the spooky season.
They’re not only tasty but super easy to make. Just thread everything onto a cute stick, and you have a perfect party snack that looks festive! 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: Use a mix of fresh and roasted for the best flavor contrast. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes work just as well.
Fresh Mozzarella Balls: Ciliegine is ideal, but bocconcini or halved larger mozzarella balls can be good substitutes. For a non-dairy option, try marinated tofu balls.
Basil Leaves: Fresh basil brings a lovely aroma. If fresh isn’t available, about half a teaspoon of dried basil works, but add it directly to the assembly step.
Balsamic Glaze: This adds a touch of sweetness and decoration. If you want an alternative, try a thick raspberry or fig glaze for a different flavor.
How Can I Make My Skewers Look Spooky?
Creating those spooky jack-o’-lantern faces on the mozzarella is the fun part! Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Use a toothpick to dip into balsamic glaze—this keeps it neat.
- Gently press the end to create your designs. Small dots for eyes and a triangle for the nose work well!
- Make jagged edges for the mouth for that classic spooky look.
- Let the faces set for a couple of minutes before assembling to avoid smudging.
Feel free to get creative! Each skewer can have its unique personality, making your display even more fun!
Halloween Caprese Skewers Recipe
Ingredients:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (some fresh, some roasted)
- 16 fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine size)
- 16 fresh basil leaves
For Decoration:
- Balsamic glaze for decoration and drizzling
For Roasting:
- Olive oil for roasting tomatoes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Extras:
- Toothpicks or small wooden skewers
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and assemble, making it quick and fun—perfect for your Halloween festivities!
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Roast:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, take half of the cherry tomatoes and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt over the top. Roast these in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the skins are wrinkled and blistered. Once done, take them out and let them cool for a moment.
2. Create Spooky Faces:
Next, grab your fresh mozzarella balls. Using a toothpick or small skewer, dip it into balsamic glaze to draw spooky jack-o’-lantern faces on the mozzarella. Aim for two triangle eyes, a teeny triangle nose, and a jagged mouth to bring your spooky cheese creatures to life!
3. Assemble the Skewers:
Now it’s time for some fun assembly! Start each skewer with one of the roasted cherry tomatoes. Next, fold a basil leaf and add it to the skewer, followed by one of your decorated mozzarella balls. Add another basil leaf, then finish with a fresh cherry tomato on top. Repeat this until all components are used!
4. Serve Deliciously:
Once your skewers are all assembled, arrange them nicely on a serving platter. For an extra festive touch, you can drizzle some more balsamic glaze and a bit of olive oil over the top.
5. Enjoy!
Serve your Halloween Caprese Skewers immediately and watch them disappear! They’re the perfect blend of fresh flavors and spooky fun, sure to impress your guests and add a festive touch to your Halloween gatherings!
These delightful skewers are easy to make and a hit at any Halloween party. Enjoy the deliciousness and have fun while creating these spooky treats! 🎃
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While fresh mozzarella is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Cheddar or gouda blocks cut into cubes can add a fun twist. Just remember that the ‘jack-o’-lantern’ face might not work as well on firmer cheeses!
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the basil looking fresh, consider removing the basil leaves while storing and adding them back when serving.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the roasted tomatoes and decorate the mozzarella balls in advance. Assemble them the day you plan to serve after storing them separately in the fridge, to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
What Can I Serve with Halloween Caprese Skewers?
These skewers pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them alongside a charcuterie board, pumpkin soup, or even some seasonal witch’s brew punch for a full Halloween feast!
