The Perfect Low-Carb Appetizer
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Cost per Serving: $2-$3
- Calorie Count per Serving: ~150 calories
This appetizer is always tied to special moments in my life. Sometimes, it’s a romantic evening with my husband, a glass of wine in hand, and a plate of these skewers between us. Other times, it’s a joyful family gathering, where everyone is laughing, sharing stories, and reaching for just one more bite.
Caprese skewers with salami take the classic flavors of a Caprese salad and add a bold, savory twist. The juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil are already a perfect trio, but the addition of folded salami makes these even more satisfying. They’re bite-sized, easy to make, and completely low-carb—ideal for any occasion, whether intimate or festive.
The best part? No cooking required. Just a handful of fresh ingredients, a little assembly, and you have an appetizer that feels just as special as the moments you serve it in.
Why You’ll Love This Caprese Skewers with Salami
These skewers are quick to make and require zero cooking—just a few minutes of assembling and you’re done. Perfect for last-minute gatherings or a simple snack.
They’re low-carb and keto-friendly, making them a great option for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful appetizer without extra carbs.
With every bite, you get the perfect balance of flavors—juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, savory salami, and fresh basil, all tied together with a drizzle of olive oil.
They’re versatile and customizable. Swap out the salami for prosciutto, try marinated mozzarella for extra flavor, or add a drizzle of pesto instead of balsamic glaze.
Most importantly, they look beautiful on a platter. Whether for a party, picnic, or holiday spread, these skewers always impress.
Ingredients
The exact ingredient amounts are listed below in the recipe card.
Tomatoes: Cherry or grape tomatoes work best here. Cherry tomatoes have a slightly sweeter flavor and burst beautifully when you bite into them, while grape tomatoes hold their shape a little better. Either way, you’ll get a juicy, fresh bite in every skewer.
Mozzarella: Mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini) are ideal since they match the size of the tomatoes, creating a perfect balance. If you can’t find them, you can cut a larger mozzarella ball into bite-sized pieces.
Salami: Thinly sliced salami adds a bold, savory contrast to the fresh ingredients. Folding it into quarters makes the skewers look great and ensures you get some in every bite. Try Genoa or soppressata for a classic taste.
Basil: Fresh basil leaves bring in a fragrant, peppery note. Look for vibrant, unwilted leaves for the best flavor.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil enhances the richness of the mozzarella and complements the tomatoes. Choose a high-quality oil for the best taste.
Balsamic Glaze (optional): This adds a touch of sweetness and depth. If you love the classic Caprese salad flavor, don’t skip this step.
Salt and Black Pepper: Just a pinch of each helps bring out all the flavors. A flaky sea salt or freshly cracked pepper will make a noticeable difference.
How to make these Caprese Skewers with Salami
Start by gathering all your ingredients and setting them up on your workspace. This will make the assembly process quick and seamless.
Take your cherry tomatoes and give them a quick rinse under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. If you’re using larger mozzarella balls, cut them into bite-sized pieces to match the size of the tomatoes.
Lay out your salami slices and fold each one into quarters. This helps create layers of flavor in each bite and makes the skewers look neat and appetizing.
Now, grab a skewer or toothpick. Begin by threading a cherry tomato onto the skewer, followed by a folded piece of salami. Next, add a fresh basil leaf, gently folded if it’s large. Slide on a mozzarella ball to complete the pattern. Repeat until all skewers are assembled.
Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, making sure each skewer gets a light coating. If you’re using balsamic glaze, now’s the time to add a delicate drizzle over the top. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the flavors.
Serve immediately, or if prepping ahead, cover and refrigerate for up to an hour before serving.
Caprese Skewers with Salami Tips
Use the freshest ingredients you can find—ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil make all the difference. If your basil leaves are on the larger side, tear them in half to keep each bite balanced.
When folding the salami, aim for small, layered folds rather than rolling it tightly. This helps it sit better on the skewer and creates a more visually appealing stack.
For the olive oil drizzle, choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil with a rich, peppery finish. It brings everything together and enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
If you’re making these ahead of time, hold off on adding the balsamic glaze until just before serving. This keeps the skewers from becoming too soft or sticky.
Want a little extra crunch? Lightly toast some pine nuts and sprinkle them over the skewers just before serving. It adds a subtle nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the creamy mozzarella.
A Perfect Pairing
These skewers pair beautifully with a chilled glass of white wine or a crisp sparkling water with fresh lemon. The light acidity of the drink cuts through the richness of the salami and mozzarella, making each bite even more delicious.
For a heartier spread, serve them alongside a charcuterie board with nuts, olives, and prosciutto, or a simple low-carb garlic bread for a little crunch. If you’re in the mood for something fresh, a light arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette is the perfect complement.
What to Serve with Caprese Skewers
Looking to turn these Caprese skewers into a full meal? Pair them with a rich, flavorful main course like a Smoked Ribeye Steak. The smoky, tender steak complements the fresh and savory flavors of the skewers, creating a perfectly balanced low-carb feast.
For more delicious ideas, check out our best low-carb appetizers and mains at Bold Bites Hub!
The Perfect Occasion for This Caprese Skewers with Salami Appetizer
These skewers shine at any gathering, big or small. They make a stunning addition to a romantic date night, where you want something effortless yet elegant.
For family dinners, they’re an easy way to add something fun and fresh to the table—kids love them just as much as adults. And if you’re hosting a party or holiday get-together, they’re the kind of appetizer that guests reach for first (and then come back for more).
No matter the occasion, these skewers bring people together, one delicious bite at a time.th salami combine fresh, creamy, and savory elements in one perfect bite. They are an effortless way to impress guests while sticking to a low-carb diet.
Must-Have Kitchen Tools for Caprese Skewers with Salami
- Pearl Cocktail Skewers – Elegant Appetizer Picks
These pearl-tipped cocktail skewers add a touch of elegance to your Caprese skewers. Sturdy and stylish, they make assembling and serving appetizers effortless. - Bamboo Cutting Board – Durable and Stylish
A high-quality bamboo cutting board is essential for prepping ingredients. It provides a sturdy surface for slicing mozzarella, arranging salami, and assembling skewers with ease.
FAQ
Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best texture, assemble them a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge. Wait to drizzle the olive oil and balsamic glaze until just before serving to keep everything fresh.
What kind of salami works best?
Thinly sliced Genoa, soppressata, or Calabrese salami work great. If you prefer something milder, try a classic hard salami. For a spicy kick, go with a peppered or chili-infused salami.
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely. While mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini) are traditional, you can swap them for feta cubes, marinated mozzarella, or even small pieces of burrata for a creamier bite.
How do I store leftovers?
These skewers are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. The basil may wilt slightly, so if making extras, keep fresh basil aside to replace if needed.
What can I use instead of balsamic glaze?
If you’re not a fan of balsamic, try a light drizzle of pesto, lemon juice, or a splash of red wine vinegar for a different twist.
Caprese Skewers with Salami
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 skewers 1x
Description
These Caprese skewers with salami take the classic Caprese salad and add a bold, savory twist. Juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and folded salami come together for a delicious, bite-sized appetizer. They’re easy to make, require no cooking, and are completely low-carb—perfect for romantic evenings, family gatherings, or holiday parties.
Ingredients
12 cherry tomatoes
12 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
12 fresh basil leaves
12 slices of salami, folded into quarters
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
12 small skewers or toothpicks
Instructions
Prepare the ingredients
Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves. Drain the mozzarella balls if packed in liquid.Assemble the skewers
Take a skewer and thread a cherry tomato, followed by a folded slice of salami. Add a fresh basil leaf, gently folded if large, and finish with a mozzarella ball. Repeat until all skewers are assembled.Drizzle and season
Arrange the skewers on a plate and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. If using balsamic glaze, add a light drizzle. Sprinkle with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.Serve immediately or chill
Enjoy right away, or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try marinated mozzarella or use a drizzle of pesto instead of balsamic glaze.
- If making ahead, store in an airtight container in the fridge and wait to add the olive oil and balsamic until serving.
- Want a crunchy twist? Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Table Toppers
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Calories: 150kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Caprese skewers, low-carb appetizer, keto snack, salami skewers, mozzarella tomato skewers, party appetizer, easy no-cook recipe, bite-sized snacks
Caprese skewers with salami are the ideal appetizer for any occasion. They’re quick, delicious, and completely customizable. Try them at your next gathering or as a simple low-carb snack.
If you make this recipe, let me know how it turned out. I’d love to hear your thoughts and variations. Enjoy!
delicious