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Fresh Mini Caprese Skewers with Basil Pesto Dip

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These fresh mini caprese skewers combine creamy mozzarella, ripe cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil, served with a homemade basil pesto dip. A quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 cherry tomatoes, ripe and firm
  • 20 fresh mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
  • 20 fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
  • For the basil pesto dip:
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted lightly
  • 2 medium garlic cloves, peeled
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling the skewers
  • Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
  • About 20 wooden toothpicks or small skewers

Instructions

  1. Prepare the basil pesto dip (about 15 minutes): Toast pine nuts lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  2. In a food processor, combine 2 cups fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, 2 garlic cloves, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse a few times to roughly chop.
  3. Slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil while the processor runs to create a smooth sauce.
  4. Add 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Pulse until blended. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Assemble the skewers (about 10 minutes): Drain the mini mozzarella balls thoroughly.
  6. Wash and dry cherry tomatoes and basil leaves carefully.
  7. Thread one cherry tomato, followed by a basil leaf (folded in half if large), then a mozzarella ball onto each toothpick.
  8. Arrange the skewers on a serving platter in neat rows or a fan shape.
  9. Final touches: Lightly drizzle the skewers with extra virgin olive oil.
  10. Optionally, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the skewers for a sweet tangy finish.
  11. Serve the skewers alongside a small bowl of basil pesto dip.

Notes

Drain mozzarella thoroughly to avoid soggy skewers. Toast pine nuts carefully to prevent bitterness. Assemble skewers just before serving to keep basil fresh. Pesto can be made a day ahead and stored tightly covered in the fridge to prevent browning.

Nutrition

Keywords: caprese skewers, basil pesto, appetizer, easy recipe, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, party food, Italian appetizer

Find it online: https://clunkcook.com/fresh-mini-caprese-skewers-recipe-easy-homemade-basil-pesto-dip/