Print

Make-Ahead Caprese Skewers Recipe

4.8 from 119 reviews

Delightful and easy-to-make Make-Ahead Caprese Skewers featuring spinach tortellini, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty pesto dressing. Perfect as a fresh appetizer or party snack, these skewers can be assembled ahead of time and dressed just before serving for maximum flavor and convenience.

Ingredients

Scale

Pesto Dressing

  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons basil pesto
  • 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar

Skewers

  • 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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pesto Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, basil pesto, and red wine vinegar. Stir or shake well to blend all ingredients smoothly. Set aside.
  2. Assemble the Caprese Skewers: Thread one cherry tomato, one fresh mozzarella ball (or cube), and one cooked and cooled spinach tortellini onto each skewer in that order. Repeat for all skewers.
  3. Finish and Serve: Just before serving, lightly drizzle the prepared pesto dressing over the assembled skewers. Garnish each skewer with a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil for a bright, aromatic finish.

Notes

  • You can use either homemade or store-bought basil pesto for convenience.
  • Fresh mozzarella balls are preferred for texture and flavor; alternatively, use regular mozzarella cut into cubes.
  • Use refrigerated cheese-stuffed spinach tortellini rather than dried pasta for best taste and texture.
  • For a heartier version, add cubed salami or summer sausage to the skewers.
  • Balsamic glaze makes a lovely alternative to the pesto dressing if desired.
  • For make-ahead preparation, assemble the skewers and store refrigerated with dressing added only at serving time to keep the ingredients fresh.

Keywords: Caprese skewers, appetizer, pesto dressing, spinach tortellini, fresh mozzarella, easy party snacks, make-ahead skewers, Italian appetizer