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Fresh Savory Blackberry Cucumber Caprese Skewers

blackberry cucumber caprese skewers - featured image

A light and refreshing summer appetizer combining juicy blackberries, crisp cucumber, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze for a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (150g) fresh blackberries
  • 1 large English cucumber, sliced into thick rounds then halved (about 10.5 oz or 300g)
  • 8 ounces (225g) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained and patted dry
  • 16 fresh basil leaves, washed and dried (or fresh mint as an alternative)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
  • Sea salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • About 16 wooden skewers or toothpicks

Instructions

  1. Drain 8 ounces (225g) of fresh mozzarella balls and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place in a mixing bowl and toss with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, a pinch of sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Let sit for about 5 minutes to absorb flavors.
  2. Slice 1 large English cucumber into ½-inch (1.3 cm) thick rounds. Cut each round in half to create manageable pieces for skewering.
  3. Rinse 1 cup (150g) of fresh blackberries gently under cold water and drain thoroughly. Pat dry with a clean towel to avoid soggy skewers.
  4. Rinse about 16 fresh basil leaves and pat dry completely.
  5. Take a wooden skewer or toothpick and thread one half cucumber slice, followed by a fresh basil leaf (folded if large), a mozzarella ball, and finish with a blackberry. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
  6. Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of balsamic glaze evenly over the top. Sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  7. Serve chilled but not ice-cold, about 15 minutes out of the fridge.

Notes

If balsamic glaze is too thick, warm slightly in microwave for 10 seconds to loosen. Assemble skewers just before serving to keep ingredients fresh and crisp. Use English cucumbers for less bitterness and fewer seeds. Store leftovers covered in refrigerator up to 24 hours; consume soon to avoid sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: blackberry skewers, cucumber caprese, summer appetizer, fresh mozzarella, balsamic glaze, easy recipe, gluten-free, vegetarian