Peach Caprese Skewers with Basil & Balsamic
The first bite of these Peach Caprese Skewers with Basil & Balsamic feels like sunshine on a summer afternoon. The juicy sweetness of ripe peaches mingles with creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil, all tied together by a glossy drizzle of balsamic reduction. They’re colorful, refreshing, and elegant enough to grace a dinner party table yet simple enough for a casual picnic. Trust me, you’re going to love this.
Behind the Recipe
This recipe was born out of a craving for something light yet indulgent during the peak of peach season. Traditional Caprese salad has long been a favorite, but swapping tomatoes for juicy peaches adds a playful twist that feels both nostalgic and new. It reminds me of picking warm peaches straight from the tree, their juice dripping down my fingers, and finding ways to make them shine in unexpected dishes.
Recipe Origin or Trivia
Caprese salad hails from the island of Capri in southern Italy, known for its sun-drenched produce and simple, vibrant flavors. While the original version celebrates tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil, creative adaptations have spread worldwide. Peaches, especially when perfectly ripe, make a natural partner in this fusion, adding a sweet-salty contrast that Italians would describe as agrodolce a balance of sweet and tangy.
Why You’ll Love Peach Caprese Skewers with Basil & Balsamic
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this recipe, but here are a few that make it irresistible:
Versatile: These skewers work beautifully as an appetizer, snack, or even a light side dish for grilled meats.
Budget-Friendly: Fresh peaches, mozzarella, and basil are affordable, and a little balsamic goes a long way.
Quick and Easy: Assembly takes just minutes, making it perfect for last-minute entertaining.
Customizable: You can add prosciutto, switch to burrata, or even try nectarines for a fun variation.
Crowd-Pleasing: Their colorful presentation makes them the first platter to disappear at parties.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare them a few hours early and refrigerate until serving.
Great for Leftovers: Any extras pair perfectly with mixed greens for a quick salad.
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Peach Caprese Skewers with Basil & Balsamic
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Juicy peaches, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and tangy balsamic glaze come together in these vibrant Peach Caprese Skewers. A refreshing summer appetizer that’s quick, elegant, and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- 3 large fresh peaches, sliced into wedges
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Pinch of sea salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Prepare skewers and serving platter, no stovetop or oven needed.
- Combine Ingredients: Reduce balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over low heat until thick and syrupy, about 10 minutes. Let cool.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Line serving platter with parchment paper if desired to catch drips.
- Assemble the Dish: Thread peach wedges, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto skewers, alternating for color and balance.
- Cook to Perfection: Balance portions on each skewer for the best flavor harmony.
- Finishing Touches: Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic reduction, then sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange skewers on a platter and serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.
Notes
- Choose peaches that are firm but ripe to hold shape on the skewer.
- Drain mozzarella well before using to prevent excess moisture.
- Let balsamic reduction cool before drizzling so it doesn’t wilt the basil.
- These skewers can be prepared up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: peach caprese skewers, summer appetizer, basil skewers, balsamic glaze skewers, peach mozzarella skewers
Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results
To make sure every skewer is as delightful as the last, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose peaches that are firm yet fragrant so they hold shape on the skewer without falling apart.
- Pat mozzarella dry before assembling to keep skewers from becoming watery.
- Use fresh basil leaves, not dried, for that essential burst of aroma.
- Reduce your balsamic slowly over low heat until syrupy for the best glossy finish.
You don’t need much for this recipe, but the right tools make it effortless:
Skewers: Wooden or metal skewers hold the layers neatly together.
Sharp Knife: Essential for cutting clean peach wedges.
Cutting Board: A sturdy base for prepping fruit and cheese.
Small Saucepan: Perfect for reducing balsamic vinegar.
Serving Platter: Wide enough to present skewers beautifully.
Ingredients in Peach Caprese Skewers with Basil & Balsamic
The harmony of these ingredients is what makes this dish shine. Each plays its part to perfection: