Pin it Festive and colorful skewers featuring cherry tomatoes and olives that resemble Christmas lights perfect for holiday parties and gatherings.
I have found that these skewers brighten up any holiday table and are a hit with guests of all ages.
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:
- Clean thoroughly before assembling.
- Step 2 Pat dry mozzarella balls (if using):
- Ensure moisture is removed to avoid soggy skewers.
- Step 3 Thread skewers:
- Alternate one olive green or black one cherry tomato and one mozzarella ball mimicking Christmas lights.
- Step 4 Add basil leaf:
- Tuck fresh basil between tomato and cheese for color and flavor.
- Step 5 Arrange skewers:
- Place on serving platter.
- Step 6 Drizzle oil and glaze:
- Lightly drizzle extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze if desired.
- Step 7 Season and serve:
- Finish with freshly ground black pepper Serve immediately.
Pin it This recipe always brings joy to family gatherings especially during the festive season.
Wine Pairing
Serve with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling wine to enhance the flavors.
Storage
Prepare skewers ahead and cover them tightly in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Variations
Add pieces of red or yellow bell pepper for extra color and crunch or substitute olives with other marinated vegetables.
Pin it These skewers are a simple festive treat sure to impress your guests at any party.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make these skewers vegan?
Yes, simply omit the mozzarella or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative to keep the skewers vegan-friendly.
- → What alternatives can I use instead of pretzel sticks?
Wooden cocktail skewers or toothpicks work well as sturdy options for threading the ingredients.
- → How do I keep the skewers fresh before serving?
Prepare the skewers shortly before serving and keep them chilled wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain freshness.
- → Can I add other vegetables for more color?
Yes, small pieces of red or yellow bell pepper can be added to enhance the visual appeal and flavor.
- → What wine pairs well with these skewers?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling wine complements the fresh, savory flavors nicely.