SnacksEasyGluten-Free

Caprese Skewers

Cool mozzarella pearls, bright cherry tomatoes, and aromatic basil threaded onto picks. These no-cook bites deliver classic Italian flavor in a remission-friendly format that's ready in 15 minutes.

Caprese Skewers
Total Time
15m
Servings
6
Calories
125
Fiber
1g
Protein
8g
Carbs
4g
Fat
9g
Best ForSafe for Crohn's & UC
RecoveringRemissionPost-Op (Late)J-Pouch

Watch Out For

cherry tomatoesmoderate

Raw tomatoes are acidic and contain seeds and skins that may irritate during active inflammation

Tip: Roast tomatoes at 400°F for 15 minutes until softened, then cool before assembling. Cooking breaks down cell walls and reduces acidity.

fresh mozzarellamild

Fresh mozzarella contains more lactose (0.1-1g per 40g) than aged cheeses due to shorter aging process

Tip: Substitute with aged mozzarella, Parmesan cubes, or lactose-free mozzarella

cherry tomatoesmild

Nightshade vegetables may worsen symptoms in some individuals, though research on this is limited

Tip: Replace with roasted red peppers (also nightshade but better tolerated cooked) or skip entirely for basil-mozzarella skewers

Ingredients

  • Moderate FODMAP
  • Moderate FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP

Instructions

  1. Drain mozzarella pearls in a fine-mesh strainer, then pat completely dry with paper towels to prevent skewers from becoming watery.

    Equipment: fine-mesh strainer, paper towels
  2. Thread ingredients onto each wooden skewer or toothpick in this order: one cherry tomato, one basil leaf (folded in half), one mozzarella pearl. The basil should be tucked between the tomato and cheese.

    Tip: Folding the basil in half releases more aroma and makes threading easier
  3. Arrange assembled skewers on a serving platter in a single layer, alternating directions for visual appeal.

    Equipment: serving platter
  4. Drizzle olive oil evenly over the skewers, followed by the balsamic glaze in thin streams.

  5. Season with a light sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper over all skewers.

  6. Serve immediately for best flavor, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours. Bring to room temperature 15 minutes before serving for fuller flavor.

    Tip: Cold mozzarella mutes flavor—room temperature makes a noticeable difference

Notes

Storage

Refrigerate assembled skewers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Store undressed if making more than 4 hours ahead, then add oil and balsamic just before serving. Tomatoes will release moisture over time, so drain any liquid before serving.

Lactose-free option

Fresh mozzarella contains more lactose (0.1-1g per 40g) than aged varieties. Substitute with aged mozzarella, Parmesan cubes, or lactose-free mozzarella if you're sensitive.

Tomato substitution

If raw tomatoes trigger symptoms, roast them first: halve tomatoes, roast at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes until softened, then cool completely before assembling. Cooking breaks down cell walls and may improve tolerance.

Balsamic glaze

Balsamic glaze is thicker and syrupy, so it clings to the skewers without running. Find it near regular balsamic vinegar, or make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until reduced by half.

Room temperature tip

Let refrigerated mozzarella sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. The milky, delicate flavor is much more pronounced when the cheese isn't ice cold.

IBD Considerations

Diet Protocol Compliance

How this recipe fits common IBD dietary approaches