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As easy to make as it is festive, this Caprese wreath appetizer is a wonderful addition to any holiday party. Everyone loves the classic combo of juicy cherry tomatoes and creamy marinated mozzarella, and pre-threading skewers keeps this easy to serve to a crowd.
I don’t know about you, but I’m always happy to see Caprese skewers, and I know a lot of family and friends who feel the same. They’re delicious, satisfying, and fresh. With juicy, plump tomatoes and creamy balls of tender mozzarella cheese, who needs anything more?
The skewers themselves are charming enough, but if you’re hosting any type of Christmas or holiday gathering, just take the small extra step of arranging them like a wreath and watch your table instantly look more vibrant!
Why You’ll Love a Caprese Wreath Appetizer
- Makes a big visual statement on the appetizer table
- Familiar crowd-pleasing flavors that everyone enjoys
- Quick and easy to make—even my five-year-old can help!
- Marinated mozzarella is always a hit
- Any excuse to eat balsamic glaze is a good thing!
Ingredient Notes
Tips for Success
- Pick a consistent pattern for the skewers. As shown here, I like to keep it ultra simple: tomato, mozzarella, tomato. Whatever you do, having one pattern keeps things visually balanced and lets you assemble on auto-pilot.
- Choose a large enough platter. There’s nothing worse than having to choose a larger plate halfway through, and then wash twice as many dishes!
- Add the basil last. It’s easiest to make the basil look pretty if you tuck it under and around the skewers after they’re arranged in a circle.
More Festive Appetizers
- Skinny Spinach Artichoke Dip
- Stuffed Mushrooms
- Boursin Cucumber Bites
- Garlic Rosemary White Bean Dip
- Crockpot BBQ Meatballs
Easy Caprese Wreath
Ingredients
- 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes
- 16 ounces marinated mozzarella balls, Ciliegine or “cherry” size
- 2 handfuls large, fresh basil leaves
- balsamic glaze, for dipping
Instructions
- Thread the tomatoes and mozzarella onto cocktail picks or short skewers (about 4" or 5" in length).2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes, 16 ounces marinated mozzarella balls
- Fill a small bowl with balsamic glaze and place in the middle of a large platter or plate.balsamic glaze
- Arrange the assembled skewers in a wreath-like pattern, with the handles facing the outer edge of the platter and the inside point facing the balsamic glaze.
- Tuck a generous layer of basil leaves under and around the skewers to resemble greenery. Serve right away, or cover with plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 2 hours.2 handfuls large, fresh basil leaves
Notes
- Mozzarella Balls: Buy these pre-prepared to save time, or follow the steps in my favorite marinated mozzarella salad to make them yourself. The cheese can—and should!—be marinated a few days in advance for maximum flavor.
- Balsamic Glaze: You can also buy this off the shelf, or make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar over medium-low heat until slightly thickened.
- Cocktail Picks: Four to five inches of length is perfect; I love this set for a small decorative touch.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
