Save Festive and colorful skewers featuring cherry tomatoes and olives that resemble Christmas lights perfect for holiday parties and gatherings.
A fun and vibrant dish that I enjoy serving at holiday gatherings because it brings everyone together with its festive look and fresh flavors.
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: 80 g bocconcini or ciliegine, drained (optional)
- Pretzel sticks or wooden cocktail skewers: 16 small
- Extra-virgin olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Balsamic glaze: 1 tsp (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves.
- Step 2:
- If using mozzarella balls, pat them dry.
- Step 3:
- 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:
- Tuck a fresh basil leaf between the tomato and the cheese for added color and flavor.
- Step 5:
- Arrange the finished skewers on a serving platter.
- Step 6:
- Drizzle lightly with olive oil and balsamic glaze if using.
- Step 7:
- Finish with a grind of black pepper Serve immediately.
Save My family always smiles when these skewers come out they brighten up any holiday table.
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
Nutritional Information
Per skewer with mozzarella Calories: 45 Total Fat: 3 g Carbohydrates: 2 g Protein: 2 g
Save These skewers bring festive cheer to any gathering perfect for quick assembly and great taste.
Recipe Questions
- → What vegetables are used in the skewers?
Cherry tomatoes in red, yellow, and orange hues along with green and black pitted olives form the base of these skewers.
- → Can I prepare these skewers in advance?
It's best to assemble them shortly before serving to maintain freshness and prevent the basil from wilting.
- → Are there dairy ingredients involved?
Mozzarella balls are included optionally; they can be omitted for a dairy-free alternative.
- → How is the flavor enhanced?
A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and optional balsamic glaze adds richness and tangy depth to the skewers.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
These skewers pair well with crisp white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling wines during festive occasions.
- → Can the skewers be made gluten-free?
Yes, using gluten-free skewers instead of pretzel sticks ensures they are suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.