Ingredients
This recipe shines because of the quality of its ingredients. Keep it fresh and flavorful, and you’ll be amazed at how something so simple can be so extraordinary.
- Fresh Mozzarella Balls (Bocconcini or Ciliegine): Look for good quality mozzarella balls packed in water. Bocconcini (medium-sized) or Ciliegine (cherry-sized) work best. They provide a creamy, milky texture that contrasts beautifully with the tomatoes.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Choose ripe, firm cherry tomatoes. A mix of colors (red, yellow, orange) adds visual appeal and slightly different flavor notes. Sweetness is key here!
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil is crucial for the marinade. It provides richness and flavor, acting as the base for the herbs and garlic to infuse.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Fresh basil brings a bright, peppery, and slightly sweet aroma that is quintessential Italian and pairs perfectly with mozzarella and tomatoes.
- Fresh Oregano Leaves: Oregano adds a slightly more robust, earthy, and slightly bitter note that complements the basil and adds depth to the marinade.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic, minced or finely grated, provides a pungent and aromatic kick that enhances the overall flavor profile of the marinade.
- Balsamic Vinegar: A touch of balsamic vinegar adds a sweet and tangy element that balances the richness of the olive oil and the sweetness of the tomatoes. Use a good quality balsamic for the best flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle warmth and a hint of spice, if you like a little kick.
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors. Use sea salt or kosher salt for the best taste and freshly ground black pepper for its aromatic complexity.
Instructions
These skewers are incredibly easy to assemble. The magic truly happens in the marinating process, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, chopped fresh oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until well combined and slightly emulsified. This is the flavor base – take a moment to smell the fragrant herbs and garlic coming together!
- Marinate the Mozzarella and Tomatoes: Gently add the mozzarella balls and cherry tomatoes to the marinade bowl. Toss gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the marinade. Be careful not to bruise the tomatoes or squish the mozzarella.
- Marinate in the Refrigerator: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they will become. Don’t marinate for too long, or the tomatoes might become slightly soft. Stir gently occasionally during marinating to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Assemble the Skewers: Remove the marinated mozzarella and tomatoes from the refrigerator. Thread the mozzarella balls and cherry tomatoes onto skewers, alternating between mozzarella and tomato. You can use wooden skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning if grilling) or metal skewers. Get creative with the order! You can do mozzarella-tomato-mozzarella or tomato-mozzarella-tomato. Aim for visually appealing and balanced skewers.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the skewers on a platter. Drizzle any remaining marinade from the bowl over the skewers for extra flavor and moisture. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve immediately or within a few hours for the best taste and texture. These are best enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled, not ice cold.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g