Grape & Goat Cheese Skewers
These elegant Grape & Goat Cheese Skewers are a perfect no-cook appetizer, offering a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite. They are incredibly easy to prepare and ideal for entertaining or a sophisticated snack.
For 6 servings
Prepare Grapes: Gently wash the grapes under cool running water and thoroughly pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Ensure they are completely dry to prevent dilution of flavors and maintain texture.
Prepare Goat Cheese: If your goat cheese log is very soft, place it in the freezer for 10-15 minutes to firm up slightly. This makes it much easier to cut cleanly. Slice the log into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) thick rounds, then cut each round into 4-6 small cubes, approximately 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) in size.
Assemble Skewers: Take one small cocktail skewer. Thread one grape onto the skewer, followed by one cube of goat cheese, and then another grape. Ensure the ingredients are snug but not overly compressed.
Repeat Assembly: Continue assembling the remaining skewers in the same manner until all grapes and goat cheese are used, aiming for about 18 skewers for 6 servings.
Arrange and Chill: Arrange the finished skewers neatly on a serving platter. If not serving immediately, cover the platter loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 hours to keep them cool and fresh.
Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, drizzle the assembled skewers lightly with balsamic glaze. Sprinkle with finely chopped fresh basil leaves for an aromatic finish, if desired. Serve chilled.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Chill the goat cheese: Freezing the goat cheese log for a short period (10-15 minutes) makes it much easier to cut into clean, uniform cubes without crumbling.
- 2Quality matters: Use good quality, ripe grapes for the best sweetness and a flavorful balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade) for a superior finish.
- 3Make ahead: These skewers can be assembled up to 2 hours in advance and kept refrigerated. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and add herbs just before serving to maintain freshness.
- 4Visual appeal: Alternate grape colors (red and green) for a more vibrant and appealing presentation on your platter.
Adapt it for your goals.
Fruit Swap
Instead of grapes, try using fresh figs (quartered), melon balls, or cherry tomatoes for a different flavor profile. Cherry tomatoes pair wonderfully with basil and balsamic.
Cheese AlternativeCheese Alternative
If goat cheese isn't your preference, small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or cubes of firm feta cheese can be used for a similar creamy or tangy texture.
Herb & Nut BoostHerb & Nut Boost
Experiment with other fresh herbs like mint or rosemary. For added crunch and flavor, sprinkle with chopped pistachios, walnuts, or a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Grapes are packed with antioxidants like resveratrol and flavonoids, which help protect the body's cells from damage and support overall health.
Source of Calcium
Goat cheese provides a good source of calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth, and it's often easier to digest for those sensitive to cow's milk.
Portion Control
Serving appetizers on skewers naturally encourages portion control, making it easier to enjoy a delicious snack without overindulging.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can easily make balsamic glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until it reduces by about half and thickens to a syrupy consistency. Let it cool completely before using.
