Save to Pinterest Festive, fresh, and vibrant skewers featuring cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, styled in a charming Christmas tree shape — the perfect holiday appetizer.
I enjoy making these skewers every holiday season because they bring color and cheer to the table while being simple to assemble.
Ingredients
- Vegetables & Herbs: 24 cherry tomatoes, 24 fresh basil leaves large
- Dairy: 24 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- Pantry: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze, 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Garnish: 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 to Pinterest This recipe has become a treasured holiday tradition with my family, enjoyed by all ages.
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.
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Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of mozzarella is best for these skewers?
Mini mozzarella balls, such as bocconcini or ciliegine, work best due to their small size and creamy texture.
- → Can I prepare the skewers in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the skewers ahead and refrigerate them without dressing. Add olive oil and balsamic glaze just before serving for freshness.
- → Are there any suggested variations for the cherry tomatoes?
Using a mix of red and yellow cherry tomatoes adds visual appeal and a subtle variation in sweetness.
- → What is the purpose of the rosemary sprigs?
Rosemary sprigs mimic the tree trunk, providing both a festive look and a fragrant herbal note.
- → How should I serve these skewers?
Arrange the skewers on a large platter in a triangular shape to resemble a Christmas tree, then drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze before serving.