Save A festive and colorful appetizer featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves arranged in a stunning tree shape—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe quickly became a holiday favorite in my family. Everyone loves the fresh flavors and fun tree shape.
Ingredients
- Produce: 20 red cherry tomatoes, 20 green grape tomatoes (or green cherry tomatoes), 20 fresh basil leaves
- Dairy: 20 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- Pantry: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional), Sea salt to taste, Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Rinse and dry the tomatoes and basil leaves. Pat the mozzarella balls dry with paper towels.
- Step 2:
- On each skewer thread one red cherry tomato one mini mozzarella ball one green grape tomato and one basil leaf. Alternate the order for visual variety if desired.
- Step 3:
- Arrange the finished skewers on a large serving platter or board in the shape of a Christmas tree starting at the bottom and stacking rows upward in a triangle.
- Step 4:
- Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the skewers. Sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper.
- Step 5:
- Optional Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor and festive shine.
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Save This makes for a wonderful family celebration appetizer and brings a festive spirit to the table.
Notes
For extra color add gold or yellow cherry tomatoes as ornaments Use toothpicks or small wooden skewers for bite-sized appetizers
Required Tools
Small skewers or toothpicks Large serving platter or board Paper towels Small bowl (for olive oil)
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (mozzarella) Gluten-free Always verify mozzarella ingredients for possible additives or allergens
Save These skewers bring both elegance and ease to your holiday appetizers. Enjoy the fresh flavors and festive look.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of tomatoes work best for this dish?
Red cherry tomatoes and green grape or cherry tomatoes create the vibrant colors and ideal sizes for skewering.
- → Can I substitute basil with another herb?
Baby spinach is a good alternative, offering a mild flavor and similar leafy texture.
- → How should the skewers be assembled for best presentation?
Alternate tomato, mozzarella, and basil on each skewer, then arrange them in a triangular tree shape on a serving board.
- → Is it better to serve these skewers immediately or chilled?
They can be served immediately or refrigerated up to 2 hours beforehand to maintain freshness without sacrificing taste.
- → What optional finishing touch enhances flavor and look?
Drizzling with balsamic glaze adds a sweet tang and a glossy finish that complements the fresh ingredients.