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Basil, tomato, balsamic – I love the combination. The recipe below calls for mozzarella cheese but if you are dairy free, just omit (or replace with a black olive) – I promise they are just as tasty to eat without.

Caprese Skewers

Look for the longer, decorative skewers in the paper plate/picnic aisle.

Ingredients

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, red or yellow
• 1 bunch basil leaves (about 18-30 leaves, the big ones can be cut in half)
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese (omit if dairy free or replace with a black olive)
• Balsamic vinegar, for drizzling
• 2-3 dozen long toothpicks or skewers

Directions

1. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half.
2. Slice the mozzarella into bite-sized chunks.
3. Slide a piece of mozzarella onto the toothpick.
4. Fold a larger basil leaf in half or thirds (or use a whole smaller one).
5. Slide a tomato onto the bottom of the skewer, cut side up.
6. Slide a piece of basil, then mozzarella, then another basil down and top with the other 1/2 of tomato. If you put the flat side at the top end of the skewer, you can stand them on a tray.
7. Place all the finished skewers on a plate or tray.
8. Drizzle lightly with balsamic vinegar and transfer to a platter to serve.

Try grilling them for a few minutes for a delicious smokey flavor.
Enjoy!!