Recipes

Acacia’s Kitchen – V-Day Caprese Skewers

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cutting board covered in Caprese salad bites

Happy Valentine’s Day! 

Not only are these caprese skewers festive with their heart-shaped tomato design, but they’re also a delicious, light and nutritious option for your Valentine’s Day appetizer. Packed with fresh ingredients like tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella, they’re sure to be a hit! 

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C, A and folate. They are also a great source of lycopene which is an antioxidant that gives tomatoes its red colour. Lycopene in tomato products is associated with a decreased risk of chronic diseases like cancer and cardiovascular disease. 

Fun fact: cooked and processed tomatoes have more lycopene than raw tomatoes.

Mini Bocconcini Cheese

Bocconcini is a fresh mozzarella cheese that adds a creamy and mild flavour to the skewers. While mozzarella is a great source of calcium and protein, it is also lower in fat and calories compared to other cheeses, making it a lighter option. A small amount of cheese can provide satiety, helping curb hunger and promote feelings of fullness without adding extra calories. 

      Cutting of the tomatoes for the caprese salad

      Basil 

      Basil is a fragrant herb that enhances the flavour of any dish while also offering a variety of health benefits. Basil contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds which have been shown to help reduce oxidative stress in the body. 

      Why These Skewers Are a Great Choice

      Not only are these caprese skewers visually appealing and fun to prepare, but they are also a fantastic source of nutrients that can support heart health. The combination of fresh tomatoes, anti-inflammatory basil, and protein-rich bocconcini provides a nutrient-dense snack or appetizer that won’t let you down. These skewers are a great option if you are looking to enjoy a lighter, healthier snack without sacrificing festivisity. However, it is important to never restrict your holiday snacks so enjoy the chocolate and savour every bite. It is all about balance! 

      Whether you’re spending Valentine’s Day with a partner, friends, or enjoying some self-care, these caprese skewers are the perfect way to show some love to your body and your palate. Light, fresh, and full of flavor, they are sure to impress! 

      Remember, the food you choose to nourish your body with is an important part of showing yourself love, too. So, this Valentine’s Day, give the gift of good nutrition with a side of heart-shaped caprese skewers! 💗

      Saint Valentine’s Caprese Skewers 

      Yields: 24 Skewers
      Prep time: 15 minutes
      Difficulty: 1/3 – Easy

      Ingredients

      • 2 cups grape tomatoes 
      • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
      • 2 cups mini bocconcini balls
      • Balsamic glaze
      • Toothpicks 

      Steps

      • Prepare the Tomatoes: Slice the tomatoes at an angle to create a heart shape. Place one-half upside down and align it with the other half to form a heart.
      • Assemble the Skewers: Take a toothpick and thread it with one basil leaf, followed by a bocconcini cheese ball, then the heart-shaped tomato.
      • Finish & Serve: Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavour, and your skewers are ready to enjoy!

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