Turkey Caprese Salad Skewers

Name: Turkey Caprese Salad Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound turkey breast, cut into cubes; 1 cup cherry tomatoes; 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls; Fresh basil leaves; 1/4 cup balsamic glaze; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal Recipe Collection

I love combining fresh ingredients and making them easy to enjoy, which is why Turkey Caprese Salad Skewers have become a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of juicy turkey, creamy mozzarella, and vibrant tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze is not only delicious but also visually appealing. These skewers are perfect for parties or light lunches, and I enjoy serving them as a fun and interactive dish that can be customized to suit everyone’s tastes. Preparing them takes just a short time, making them a quick go-to when I’m entertaining.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-20T14:09:19.300Z

When I first whipped up these Turkey Caprese Salad Skewers, I was amazed at how quickly they came together. The key is using high-quality ingredients; fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes really make a difference in flavor. I love to marinate the turkey in a little Italian dressing before grilling it, as it adds an extra layer of depth that doesn’t go unnoticed!

An unexpected tip I’ve learned over time is to let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute in the turkey, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful. Trust me, it’s worth the extra patience!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and vibrant flavors that sing of summer.
Healthy protein packed in an easy-to-eat format.
A delightful presentation that’s perfect for gatherings.

Perfecting the Marinade

The marinade is crucial for ensuring the turkey remains juicy and flavorful during cooking. I recommend using extra virgin olive oil to add richness, and make sure to season generously with salt and fresh cracked pepper. For more depth, consider adding minced garlic or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. Allowing the turkey to marinate for at least 15-30 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, enhancing the overall taste of the skewers.

If you're short on time, even a quick 10-minute marinade can provide some flavor, but don’t skip this step! Just remember to keep the turkey cubes at room temperature while they marinate to avoid any drastic temperature changes that might affect cooking.

Grilling Tips

To achieve a perfect grill on your turkey cubes, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. This ensures that the turkey gets seared nicely while remaining juicy inside. When threading the cubes onto the skewers, leave a little space in between each piece; this allows for even cooking and a delightful grilled texture. Flip them occasionally for a uniform char and grill for approximately 10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Keep an eye on the turkey pieces to prevent drying out. If they seem to be cooking too fast, lower the heat slightly. A digital meat thermometer is a great tool to help keep track of doneness without cutting into the meat, preserving juiciness.

Assembly and Storage Considerations

Assembling the skewers can be a fun and creative process, and you can customize them based on your preferences. For a touch of sweetness, consider adding different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini slices. If you want to make it even lighter, you can swap the mozzarella for feta cheese. Just be mindful that some cheeses can be saltier than others, so balance your seasoning accordingly.

If you make these skewers ahead of time, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Since the balsamic glaze can make things a bit soggy, consider drizzling it on just before serving rather than in advance. If you have leftovers, you can easily repurpose them on a salad or pasta dish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delightful skewer:

For the Skewers

1 pound turkey breast, cut into cubes
1 cup cherry tomatoes
8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls
Fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup balsamic glaze
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have skewers ready for assembling!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your skewers:

Marinate the Turkey

In a bowl, combine the turkey cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Grill the Turkey

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Thread the marinated turkey onto skewers and grill for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.

Assemble the Skewers

On each skewer, alternate between cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, grilled turkey, and fresh basil leaves.

Drizzle and Serve

Once assembled, drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for extra flavor!

Enjoy your tasty skewers!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of Italian seasoning to the turkey while marinating. You can also use different types of cheese, like feta or gouda, for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

Turkey Caprese Salad Skewers shine as a standalone appetizer, but they can also be paired with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a more complete meal. The peppery arugula complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and the richness of the mozzarella beautifully.

For a festive touch, serve the skewers on a rustic wooden board with additional balsamic glaze for dipping and a sprinkle of sea salt. Consider offering a variety of dipping sauces, such as pesto or a yogurt-based dip, to satisfy varying taste preferences.

Variations for Every Palate

Feel free to explore different flavor profiles by incorporating other proteins. Grilled shrimp or cubed cooked chicken can be wonderful alternatives if you’re looking to mix things up. These proteins will pair wonderfully with the mozzarella and tomatoes while maintaining the essence of the Caprese theme.

For those who prefer plant-based options, replace the turkey with marinated tofu cubes or tempeh. Just be sure to adjust marinade time, as tofu absorbs flavors quickly and doesn't require long marination.

Troubleshooting and Common Issues

If your turkey skewers seem dry, it may be due to overcooking or not enough marinade. Always keep a close eye and use a thermometer to check for doneness. If you’re grilling on a crowded grill, the temperature may drop too low, leading to longer cook times and potential drying out, so space is key.

If the mozzarella balls are melting too much while grilling, consider using a slightly firmer cheese or cooling the skewers after assembling in the fridge for a bit before grilling, to help them hold their shape during cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the turkey and assemble the skewers a few hours before serving. Just keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to grill.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for additional variety and flavor.

→ Can I use leftover turkey?

Yes! Leftover cooked turkey can be used; just omit the marinating step and grill until heated through.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not include any flour or gluten-containing ingredients.