Name: Make-Ahead Caprese Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: ¼ cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons basil pesto; 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar; 9 ounces refrigerated spinach tortellini, cooked according to package directions, drained and cooled; 1 pint cherry tomatoes; 6 ounces fresh mozzarella balls or cubed mozzarella; ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

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Introduction

Make-Ahead Caprese Skewers are a fresh and flavorful appetizer perfect for any gathering. Combining tender spinach tortellini, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella with a vibrant pesto dressing, these skewers are easy to assemble and even easier to enjoy.

The image shows five wooden skewers on a black rectangular plate, each skewer layered with three sections: bright green basil leaves on the top, smooth white mozzarella balls in the middle, and shiny red cherry tomatoes at the bottom, all sprinkled lightly with herbs and olive oil, garnished with green parsley on the right side of the plate. The plate lies on a white marbled surface next to a silver bowl filled with shiny and glittery gold and silver Christmas ornaments, adding a festive feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

¼ cup olive oil
2 tablespoons basil pesto
2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
9 ounces refrigerated spinach tortellini, cooked, drained, and cooled
1 pint cherry tomatoes
6 ounces fresh mozzarella balls or cubed mozzarella
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, basil pesto, and red wine vinegar to create the dressing. Set aside.
Step 2: Thread a cherry tomato, a mozzarella ball, and a piece of spinach tortellini onto each skewer in that order. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
Step 3: Just before serving, lightly drizzle the pesto dressing over the assembled skewers.
Step 4: Garnish with chopped fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor.

Tips & Variations

You can use either homemade or store-bought pesto for convenience and consistent flavor.
Substitute fresh mozzarella balls with regular mozzarella cut into cubes if preferred.
Choose refrigerated spinach tortellini from your grocery store’s fresh pasta section, avoiding dried pasta.
Add cubed salami or summer sausage to the skewers for a heartier appetizer.
Try replacing the pesto dressing with balsamic glaze for a different but delicious twist.

Storage

Prepare the skewers and dressing up to two days in advance. Store the assembled skewers covered in the refrigerator, but keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent sogginess. When ready, drizzle the dressing over the skewers and serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

The image shows several skewers arranged on a white rectangular plate with a glossy finish. Each skewer has three layers: a red, shiny grape tomato on the bottom, a smooth, white mozzarella ball in the middle, and a bright green, slightly wrinkled basil leaf on top. The layers give a fresh and colorful mix of red, white, and green. There are small bits of green herbs sprinkled over the cheese and basil, adding texture. The plate is on a white marbled surface, with some green herbs scattered on the side, adding extra color. A woman's hand is gently holding one skewer in the front. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use dried tortellini instead of refrigerated?

It’s best to use refrigerated, cheese-stuffed spinach tortellini for this recipe as it has a tender texture and cooks quickly. Dried tortellini has a firmer texture and may not provide the ideal bite for these skewers.

How long can I keep the assembled skewers in the fridge?

You can refrigerate the assembled skewers for up to two days if kept covered. Remember to add the dressing only just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent the ingredients from becoming soggy.