Cantaloupe, Mozzarella & Basil Skewers
Juicy, sweet cantaloupe paired with creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil, threaded onto skewers for a refreshing appetizer. A drizzle of balsamic glaze ties it all together in minutes.
For 4 servings
- prep
Prep the cantaloupe and mozzarella.
1.Cut cantaloupe in half, scoop out seeds, and slice into 24 bite-sized cubes (about 1-inch each).2.Drain mozzarella and pat dry with a paper towel so the skewers aren't watery.3.Pick 16 fresh basil leaves, wash gently, and pat completely dry.TIPDry mozzarella and basil well — excess moisture dilutes the balsamic drizzle. - assemble
Thread the skewers.
1.Take one skewer and thread a cantaloupe cube, a folded basil leaf, and a mozzarella piece.2.Repeat with another cantaloupe cube, basil leaf, and mozzarella piece on the same skewer.3.Finish with one more cantaloupe cube so each skewer has 3 melon cubes, 2 basil leaves, and 2 mozzarella pieces.4.Repeat with remaining skewers to make 8 total.TIPFold basil leaves in half before threading — it releases their fragrance and looks prettier. - mix · ~2 min
Make the balsamic drizzle.
1.In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and olive oil until emulsified.2.Add a pinch of salt and a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper. Whisk again.3.If using, whisk in 1 teaspoon honey for a touch of sweetness that balances the vinegar. - assemble
Arrange and drizzle.
1.Arrange the skewers on a serving platter in a single layer.2.Drizzle the balsamic mixture lightly over all skewers right before serving.TIPDrizzle just before serving so the basil stays fresh and the melon doesn't get soggy. - serve
Serve immediately at room temperature.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use a melon baller for perfectly uniform cantaloupe cubes that look elegant on the skewer.
- 2Pat the mozzarella and basil extremely dry — excess moisture makes the balsamic drizzle slide off.
- 3Thread cantaloupe on both ends of the skewer so the softer mozzarella is protected in the middle.
- 4Make the balsamic vinaigrette up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate; whisk again before drizzling.
- 5For a pretty presentation, fan the skewers on a platter and garnish with small basil leaves.
- 6Assemble skewers up to 2 hours in advance, cover with damp paper towel, then drizzle just before serving.
Adapt it for your goals.
Prosciutto wrap
Wrap each mozzarella piece with a thin slice of prosciutto before threading. Adds a salty, savory layer that balances the sweet melon and makes the skewers more substantial.
veganVegan
Replace mozzarella with firm, oil-packed sun-dried tomato halves or marinated tofu cubes. Creates a tangy, savory alternative while keeping the fresh basil and balsamic.
spicy kickSpicy kick
Add a thin slice of fresh jalapeño or a dash of red pepper flakes to the balsamic drizzle. The heat plays off the sweet melon and creamy cheese for a surprising finish.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Cantaloupe is an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.
Good Source of Calcium
Mozzarella cheese provides calcium for strong bones and teeth, with a modest amount of protein.
Hydrating and Low Calorie
Cantaloupe is over 90% water, making these skewers a hydrating, light appetizer that won't weigh you down.
Antioxidant-Rich Basil
Fresh basil contains antioxidants like flavonoids that help combat oxidative stress in the body.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, honeydew works but is less sweet — consider adding a touch more honey to the balsamic drizzle for balance.
