Save Festive and colorful skewers featuring cherry tomatoes and olives that resemble Christmas lights—perfect for holiday parties and gatherings.
This recipe always brightens up our holiday parties and brings smiles to everyone's faces.
Ingredients
- Cherry tomatoes: 16 mixed red, yellow, and orange for color
- Green olives: 16, pitted
- Black olives: 16, pitted
- Fresh basil leaves: 1 small bunch
- Mozzarella balls (optional): 80 g bocconcini or ciliegine, drained
- Pretzel sticks or wooden cocktail skewers: 16 small
- Extra-virgin olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Balsamic glaze (optional): 1 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Step 1 Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves:
- Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves.
- Step 2 Prepare the mozzarella balls:
- If using mozzarella balls, pat them dry.
- Step 3 Thread onto skewers:
- On each skewer or pretzel stick, thread one olive (green or black), one cherry tomato, and one mozzarella ball, alternating colors to mimic Christmas lights.
- Step 4 Add basil:
- Tuck a fresh basil leaf between the tomato and the cheese for added color and flavor.
- Step 5 Arrange skewers:
- Arrange the finished skewers on a serving platter.
- Step 6 Drizzle dressing:
- Drizzle lightly with olive oil and balsamic glaze, if using.
- Step 7 Season and serve:
- Finish with a grind of black pepper. Serve immediately.
Save This recipe always creates joyful moments during our family's holiday celebrations.
Required Tools
Small skewers or pretzel sticks cutting board sharp knife serving platter
Allergen Information
Contains dairy if using mozzarella Pretzel sticks may contain gluten use gluten-free skewers for a gluten-free version Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 45 Total Fat 3 g Carbohydrates 2 g Protein 2 g per skewer with mozzarella
Save These skewers make a simple yet impressive appetizer that brightens any holiday spread.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make these skewers vegan?
Yes, simply omit the mozzarella or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative to keep it vegan.
- → What types of olives work best for the skewers?
Green and black olives, pitted, offer contrasting colors and flavors that enhance the festive look and taste.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover skewers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days for best freshness.
- → Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, assemble skewers ahead and refrigerate, but add olive oil and balsamic glaze just before serving to maintain freshness.
- → What is a good wine pairing for these skewers?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling wine complements the bright flavors and enhances the festive experience.