These Shrimp Caprese Skewers combine juicy shrimp, ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all finished with a sweet-tangy balsamic glaze.
Perfect for parties, holidays, or easy entertaining, these skewers are simple, elegant, and bursting with flavor!
Why You’ll Love These Shrimp Caprese Skewers
Light and fresh appetizer – perfect year-round
Easy to assemble – minimal prep and cooking
Beautiful presentation – colorful and festive
Customizable – adjust ingredients to taste
Great make-ahead option for parties
Low-carb and naturally gluten-free
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Raw shrimp – peeled, deveined, and tail-off for easy eating
Cherry or grape tomatoes – sweet and juicy
Fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine) – creamy and mild
Fresh basil leaves – aromatic and vibrant
Olive oil – for cooking shrimp
Balsamic glaze – drizzled for a tangy finish
Party skewers or toothpicks – for assembling
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use extra jumbo shrimp (16–20 count per pound) for best size
Thaw frozen shrimp quickly under cold water
Pat shrimp dry before seasoning and cooking
Cook shrimp just until pink to avoid rubbery texture
Assemble skewers right before serving for freshness
How to Make Shrimp Caprese Skewers
Step 1: Prepare the shrimp
If frozen, thaw shrimp under cold running water.
Remove tails if desired. Pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Season and cook shrimp
Toss shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Arrange on a sheet pan and bake at 400°F for 8 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and opaque.
Step 3: Prepare other ingredients
Rinse and dry tomatoes and basil leaves. Drain mozzarella balls.
Step 4: Assemble the skewers
Thread one shrimp, one basil leaf (fold if large), one mozzarella ball, and one tomato onto each skewer.
Step 5: Finish with glaze
Arrange skewers on a platter.
Drizzle generously with balsamic glaze right before serving.
What to Serve It With
Charcuterie boards for a stunning spread
Fresh green salad with vinaigrette
Grilled meats or seafood for a full meal
Sparkling wine or rosé for refreshing pairing
Lemon wedges for extra brightness
Variations / Substitutions
Swap mozzarella for marinated mozzarella balls for extra flavor
Add prosciutto slices for a savory twist
Use heirloom tomatoes for colorful variety
Replace shrimp with scallops for a gourmet touch
Use pesto drizzle instead of balsamic for an herby flavor
Storage & Leftovers
Best fresh: Serve skewers the same day they’re made
Fridge: Store assembled skewers in an airtight container for up to 24 hours
Tip: Add balsamic glaze just before serving to avoid sogginess
Reheat shrimp gently if needed, but best eaten cold or room temperature
FAQs
Can I use frozen cooked shrimp?
Yes, but cooking raw shrimp gives better flavor and texture.
How far in advance can I make them?
You can assemble them a few hours ahead and refrigerate without the glaze.
Can I grill the shrimp instead of baking?
Absolutely! Grill over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side.
Can I substitute other cheese?
Mini mozzarella balls work best, but small cubes of feta or goat cheese could work too.
Is balsamic glaze necessary?
It adds a beautiful sweet-tangy flavor, but you can serve it on the side if preferred.
Can I use larger skewers for a full meal?
Yes! Use longer skewers and double up the ingredients for a more filling dish.
Are these skewers keto-friendly?
Yes, they’re low-carb and keto-friendly without any adjustments.
Final Thoughts
These Shrimp Caprese Skewers are the ultimate easy, elegant appetizer, combining fresh ingredients with vibrant flavors.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a summer BBQ, or a simple dinner, these skewers will steal the show—beautiful, healthy, and delicious in every bite!
Full Recipe Card
Ingredients
1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine)
1 bunch fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons olive oil
Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Skewers or toothpicks
Instructions
Step 1: Thaw and pat dry shrimp if frozen.
Step 2: Toss shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bake at 400°F for 8 minutes.
Step 3: Rinse tomatoes and basil. Drain mozzarella.
Step 4: Assemble skewers with one shrimp, basil leaf, mozzarella ball, and tomato.
Step 5: Arrange on platter. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
