Save Festive and colorful skewers featuring cherry tomatoes and olives that resemble Christmas lights—perfect for holiday parties and gatherings.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 0 minutes Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
- Vegetables & Fruits: 16 cherry tomatoes (mixed red, yellow, and orange for color) 16 green olives, pitted 16 black olives, pitted 1 small bunch fresh basil leaves
- Cheese (optional): 80 g mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained
- Other: 16 small pretzel sticks or wooden cocktail skewers 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 1 tsp balsamic glaze (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 Wine pairing: Serve with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling wine.
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
Save This easy appetizer adds festive color and delicious flavors to any holiday gathering.
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-friendly.
- → What kind of olives work best?
Green and black pitted olives add both color and flavor contrast, enhancing the festive look of the skewers.
- → Do I need to cook the skewers?
No cooking is required; the skewers are assembled fresh, making them quick and easy to prepare.
- → Can I use different vegetables for more color?
Absolutely, colorful heirloom cherry tomatoes and small bell pepper pieces can add extra vibrancy.
- → How should I serve these skewers?
Arrange on a serving platter and drizzle lightly with extra-virgin olive oil and optional balsamic glaze. Serve immediately for best freshness.