Name: Caprese & Focaccia Skewers
Prep time: 40 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: For the Skewers; 2 (8-ounce) fresh mozzarella balls; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; Zest from 1 lemon; 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 garlic clove, minced; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes; Pinch maldon salt; ¼ cup olive oil; 1 (10-14 ounce) focaccia; 24 cherry tomatoes; 24 fresh basil leaves; 12 (8-inch) bamboo skewers; 2 tablespoons pomegranate syrup/molasses; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; ⅛ teaspoon flaky sea salt; ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

Appetizers

Caprese & Focaccia Skewers

Author: Mary DiSomma

I love summer entertaining, and this focaccia caprese skewers recipe is always a hit. These easy, no-cook skewers are colorful, easy to assemble, and—let me actually enjoy the party—no oven needed! No matter how you arrange the ingredients on the skewers, they bring fresh flavor and simple elegance to the table. They’re one of my favorite no-fuss appetizers this year!

Ingredient Tips

You could also swap out the focaccia for ciabatta cubes, add olives, or include marinated artichoke hearts for additional flavor.

Preparation + Preservation Tips

Absolutely! You can marinate the mozzarella and prepare the focaccia cubes, tomatoes, and basil a few hours ahead of time. Store each component separately in airtight containers and assemble the skewers just before serving. I wouldn't recommend making them more than a few hours ahead. With a tomato and mozzarella dish like this one, it’s important your ingredients are fresh and vibrant.

Since there’s no cooked meat involved, you can keep skewers out for about 2 hours at room temperature. After that, flavor and quality will start to decline. For warmer days, consider setting them on top of an ice-filled tray to help them stay cool. It’s a caprese appetizer, of course, so it’s best served chilled or at room temperature—no warmer than that.

Want to add more substance? Don’t worry: You can keep the no-cook recipe and still add protein! In my opinion, Italian cold cuts are the best kind of meat to add to homemade skewers. Try threading on some prosciutto or salami between layers for an antipasti twist—just fold each piece of meat nicely before skewering.

Extra Tips

Make your Focaccia Caprese Skewers not just tasty but also picture-perfect with a few helpful tricks.

Tear the Cheese for Better Flavor

Instead of cutting your mozzarella into cubes, try tearing it into bite-sized chunks. The uneven edges create more surface area to soak up that zesty marinade for more flavor in every bite.

Toast the Focaccia for Extra Crunch

Want to add a bit of texture? Lightly toast the focaccia cubes in a 350 °F oven or toaster oven for about 5 minutes. This simple step gives them a lovely golden edge and helps them hold their shape on the skewer.

Garnish with Thyme and Lemon for Visual Flair

Dress up your serving platter with a few sprigs of fresh thyme and thin lemon slices. These little touches make your presentation extra special!

Chill Ingredients Before Skewering

Cool your ingredients in the fridge before assembling. This helps them stay firm and makes them easier to skewer.

These skewers are perfect for light summer spreads. Try them with:

Easy Watermelon Feta Skewers with Fresh Mint and Balsamic Glaze➝

Easy Antipasto Skewers Appetizer➝

I want to encourage people to feel confident to try new things in the kitchen and to be inspired to share more meals with friends and family.

It’s easy to collect recipes and save them for “some day.” I believe recipes are for making. Let's do it together. Join me in exploring the world through food!