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!
Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
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.
How long can these sit out?
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.
Focaccia bread is a great place to start for caprese skewers. But you can also customize your skewers with meat and so much more!
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.
Can you use other kinds of bread for this recipe?
You could also swap out the focaccia for ciabatta cubes, add olives, or include marinated artichoke hearts for additional flavor.
Tips & Tricks for for Assembling the Perfect Caprese Skewers
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.
More Skewer Recipes and Yummy Summer Appetizers
These skewers are perfect for light summer spreads. Try them with:
Focaccia Caprese Skewers Recipe
Fresh, colorful caprese skewers made with focaccia, cherry tomatoes, basil, and marinated mozzarella. Serve with lemon-thyme dressing and pomegranate-balsamic drizzle to really “Wow!” your guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the mozzarella, tear it into about 24 chunks, and place them in a shallow bowl.
- Make the marinade for the mozzarella: In a small pitcher, stir together the thyme, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and olive oil. Pour the mixture over the mozzarella, gently stir to coat, and then leave to marinate in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Cut the focaccia into roughly 1-inch cubes.
- Make the dressing: Whisk together the pomegranate molasses, vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Assemble the skewers: In whatever order you choose, add the following to each skewer: 2 pieces of focaccia, 2 tomatoes, 2 basil leaves, 2 mozzarella chunks, and 2 pieces of meat if you’re using it. Make sure to leave some space at one end so it’s easy to grab!
- Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Serve the dressing on the side for your guests to drizzle as they please.
