Save Festive, fresh, and vibrant skewers featuring cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil styled in a charming Christmas tree shape — the perfect holiday appetizer.
I first served these skewers at a holiday party and they were a huge hit with family and friends.
Ingredients
- Cherry tomatoes: 24 large fresh
- 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
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.
Save My family enjoys assembling these skewers together as a festive holiday tradition.
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.
Save This recipe brings holiday cheer with every bite and makes entertaining effortless.
Recipe Guide
- → What type of tomatoes work best for these skewers?
Cherry tomatoes are ideal due to their size and sweetness. For added color, a mix of red and yellow varieties can be used.
- → Can the skewers be prepared in advance?
Yes, assemble the skewers and refrigerate them without the olive oil and balsamic glaze. Add these just before serving to keep flavors fresh.
- → What cheese is recommended for these skewers?
Mini mozzarella balls, such as bocconcini or ciliegine, provide a creamy texture that pairs well with the fresh herbs and tomatoes.
- → How is the rosemary used in this dish?
Fresh rosemary sprigs are placed at the base of the skewers to mimic a tree trunk and provide a festive aromatic garnish.
- → Is there a suggested alternative for balsamic glaze?
Pesto can be used as a flavorful alternative to balsamic glaze for drizzling over the skewers.