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!