20 Refreshing Cold Appetizer Skewers Flavorful Recipes

Perfect for those warm evenings when you’re craving something light yet bursting with flavor, our collection of 20 Refreshing Cold Appetizer Skewers is here to elevate your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or looking for a quick, no-cook option, these skewers promise minimal effort with maximum taste. Dive into our list and discover your next favorite appetizer that’s sure to impress!

Caprese skewers with balsamic glaze

Ready to whip up a simple yet elegant appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering? These Caprese skewers with balsamic glaze combine fresh flavors in a bite-sized package, ideal for beginners to master with ease.

Ingredients

– A couple of cups of cherry tomatoes
– A bunch of fresh basil leaves
– 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella balls (the small ones)
– A splash of balsamic glaze
– A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
– A pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Start by washing the cherry tomatoes and patting them dry with a clean towel to ensure your skewers aren’t watery.
2. Drain the mozzarella balls if they’re packed in water, and pat them dry as well for better skewering.
3. Pick out the nicest, medium-sized basil leaves—ones that aren’t too big or too small for the skewers.
4. On each skewer, thread one cherry tomato, followed by a folded basil leaf, then a mozzarella ball. Repeat the pattern until the skewer is filled, leaving a little space at the end for handling.
5. Arrange all your skewers on a serving platter, making sure they’re not too crowded.
6. Drizzle the skewers lightly with extra virgin olive oil for a bit of richness.
7. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper over the top to enhance all the flavors.
8. Finish by drizzling the balsamic glaze over the skewers in a zigzag pattern for both flavor and a beautiful presentation.

So there you have it—these skewers are a delightful mix of juicy, creamy, and herby with a sweet and tangy finish from the glaze. Try serving them on a rustic wooden board for an extra touch of charm at your next dinner party.

Cucumber and smoked salmon bites

Zesty and refreshing, these cucumber and smoked salmon bites are the perfect appetizer to impress your guests with minimal effort. Let’s dive into making these elegant little treats that combine crisp cucumber, creamy cheese, and savory smoked salmon.

Ingredients

• 1 large cucumber, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 4 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• A splash of lemon juice
• A couple of fresh dill sprigs, chopped
• A pinch of salt
• A dash of black pepper

Instructions

1. Start by laying out all your cucumber slices on a serving platter.
2. In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with a splash of lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a dash of black pepper until smooth. Tip: Letting the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing makes it easier to blend.
3. Using a small spoon or a piping bag, spread or pipe about a teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture onto each cucumber slice.
4. Top each cream cheese-covered cucumber with a small piece of smoked salmon. Tip: If the salmon slices are too large, gently tear them into smaller, bite-sized pieces for easier eating.
5. Sprinkle the chopped dill over the top of each bite for a fresh, herby finish. Tip: For an extra zing, add a tiny drop of lemon juice on top of the salmon before adding the dill.
6. Chill the bites in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Bite into these cucumber and smoked salmon bites for a burst of cool cucumber, rich cream cheese, and the smoky depth of salmon. They’re not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that’ll have everyone reaching for more. Try serving them on a slate board for a rustic yet elegant presentation.

Greek salad skewers with feta and olives

Whipping up a quick and flavorful appetizer has never been easier with these Greek salad skewers. Perfect for beginners, this recipe combines fresh ingredients in a fun, skewered form.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, cut into 1-inch chunks
• a handful of pitted kalamata olives
• a couple of ounces of feta cheese, cubed
• a splash of olive oil
• a sprinkle of dried oregano
• a pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Gather all your ingredients and a pack of wooden skewers.
2. Start by threading a halved cherry tomato onto a skewer, followed by a cucumber chunk, an olive, and a cube of feta cheese. Repeat this pattern until the skewer is full, leaving a little space at the ends for easy handling.
3. Tip: Soak your wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes before using to prevent burning.
4. Arrange all prepared skewers on a serving platter.
5. Drizzle the skewers lightly with olive oil, just enough to coat the ingredients.
6. Sprinkle the skewers with dried oregano and a pinch of salt for that authentic Greek flavor.
7. Tip: For an extra burst of freshness, add a squeeze of lemon juice over the skewers before serving.
8. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for up to an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.
9. Tip: If you’re serving these at a party, consider adding a small bowl of tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping.

Delightfully simple, these skewers offer a crunchy texture from the cucumber, a juicy burst from the tomatoes, and a creamy saltiness from the feta. Try serving them alongside grilled meats or as part of a Mediterranean-themed meal for a cohesive dining experience.

Prosciutto-wrapped melon and mozzarella skewers

Let’s dive into creating a refreshing and elegant appetizer that’s perfect for any summer gathering. These skewers combine the sweetness of melon with the savory depth of prosciutto and the creamy texture of mozzarella, making them a hit at any table.

Ingredients

• 1 ripe cantaloupe, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 6 slices of prosciutto, each cut into 4 strips
• A couple of fresh basil leaves, torn
• A drizzle of balsamic glaze
• A pinch of freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Start by threading a cube of cantaloupe onto a skewer, followed by a cube of mozzarella, and then another cube of cantaloupe. Tip: Make sure the pieces are snug but not too tight to prevent them from falling apart.
2. Wrap a strip of prosciutto around the middle of the skewered ingredients, letting the ends overlap slightly. Tip: The prosciutto adds a salty contrast, so no need for extra salt.
3. Repeat the process until all skewers are assembled. You should end up with about 12 skewers.
4. Arrange the skewers on a serving platter, sprinkle with torn basil leaves, and drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze. Tip: The balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish, so a little goes a long way.
5. Finish with a pinch of freshly ground black pepper for an extra layer of flavor.

Bursting with flavors, these skewers offer a delightful contrast between the juicy melon, creamy mozzarella, and salty prosciutto. Serve them on a bed of arugula for an added peppery bite or alongside a glass of crisp white wine to elevate your appetizer game.

Shrimp and avocado skewers with lime dressing

Venturing into the world of grilling can be as simple as starting with these shrimp and avocado skewers, a dish that combines the succulence of seafood with the creamy texture of avocado, all brought together with a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for beginners, this recipe walks you through each step to ensure a delicious outcome.

Ingredients

• 1 lb of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 ripe avocados, cut into chunks
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• 2 tbsp of lime juice
• 1 tsp of honey
• A pinch of salt
• A couple of wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F, ensuring it’s clean to prevent sticking.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, and a pinch of salt to create the dressing. Tip: Taste the dressing and adjust the lime or honey to balance the flavors to your liking.
3. Thread the shrimp and avocado chunks alternately onto the soaked skewers. Tip: Leave a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
4. Brush the skewers generously with half of the lime dressing. Tip: Reserve the other half for serving to enhance the flavors after grilling.
5. Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
6. Remove the skewers from the grill and drizzle with the remaining dressing.

Ready to serve, these skewers offer a delightful contrast between the charred shrimp and the soft, buttery avocado, with the lime dressing adding a refreshing kick. For an extra touch, serve them over a bed of mixed greens or alongside a cold quinoa salad for a complete meal.

Watermelon and feta mint skewers

You’ll find these watermelon and feta mint skewers to be a refreshingly simple dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings. Let’s walk through the process together, ensuring every step is clear and manageable, even for beginners.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup of feta cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• A handful of fresh mint leaves
• A splash of olive oil
• A couple of bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

1. Start by prepping your ingredients: cube the watermelon and feta cheese into the specified sizes, and pick the mint leaves off their stems.
2. Take a soaked bamboo skewer and alternately thread a piece of watermelon, a mint leaf, and a cube of feta cheese. Repeat this pattern until the skewer is full, leaving a little space at each end for easy handling.
3. Tip: For easier skewering, make sure your feta cubes are firm; if they’re too soft, pop them in the freezer for about 10 minutes before using.
4. Once all skewers are assembled, lightly drizzle them with olive oil. This adds a subtle richness and helps the mint leaves stick to the ingredients.
5. Tip: If you’re preparing these ahead of time, cover and refrigerate them, but add the olive oil just before serving to keep everything fresh.
6. Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish the platter with a few whole mint leaves.
7. Tip: Serve these skewers chilled for the most refreshing taste, especially on a hot day.

Just like that, you’ve created a dish that’s a delightful mix of sweet, salty, and fresh flavors, with a texture contrast between the juicy watermelon and creamy feta. These skewers are not only a treat to eat but also a visually appealing addition to any table.

Antipasto skewers with salami and artichokes

Kickstart your culinary adventure with these delightful antipasto skewers, a perfect blend of savory salami and tangy artichokes, ideal for any gathering or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

• a couple of ounces of salami, sliced into quarters
• a handful of marinated artichoke hearts, drained
• a splash of olive oil
• a small bunch of fresh basil leaves
• a cup of cherry tomatoes
• a block of mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
• a packet of wooden skewers

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F to lightly toast the skewers if desired, for about 5 minutes, to prevent splintering.
2. Thread a piece of salami onto a skewer, folding it slightly to add texture and visual appeal.
3. Add a marinated artichoke heart next, ensuring it’s snug against the salami for a compact skewer.
4. Slide a cherry tomato onto the skewer, followed by a fresh basil leaf wrapped around a mozzarella cube for a burst of flavor.
5. Repeat the pattern until the skewer is full, leaving about an inch at the bottom for easy handling.
6. Drizzle a splash of olive oil over the assembled skewers for a glossy finish and enhanced taste.
7. Arrange the skewers on a serving platter, spacing them evenly for an attractive presentation.

Here’s how these skewers turn out: the salami offers a meaty bite, contrasted by the creamy mozzarella and the sharpness of the artichokes. Serve them as a centerpiece on a charcuterie board or as a handheld appetizer at your next picnic.

Asian-inspired sesame chicken skewers

Every now and then, we all crave something that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. These Asian-inspired sesame chicken skewers are just that—a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and a hint of spice, all in one bite.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs of chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• A couple of tablespoons of soy sauce
• A splash of sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons of honey
• A pinch of red pepper flakes
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• A tablespoon of sesame seeds
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic to create your marinade.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes in the fridge—overnight is even better for deeper flavor.
3. Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 375°F). Grill the skewers for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks.
5. Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the skewers right after they come off the grill, so they stick to the chicken.

Mouthwatering doesn’t even begin to describe these skewers. The chicken is juicy and tender, with a caramelized exterior from the honey in the marinade. Serve them over a bed of steamed rice or with a side of crisp, fresh vegetables for a complete meal.

Pineapple and ham skewers with honey mustard

Pineapple and ham skewers with honey mustard are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, ideal for your next backyard BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner. Preparing these skewers is straightforward, and the result is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of cubed ham (about 1-inch pieces)
• 1 cup of fresh pineapple chunks (same size as the ham)
• A couple of wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
• 2 tbsp of honey
• 1 tbsp of Dijon mustard
• A splash of olive oil
• A pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, around 375°F.
2. While the grill heats, thread the ham and pineapple chunks onto the skewers, alternating between the two for a colorful presentation.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and Dijon mustard until smooth. This will be your glaze.
4. Lightly brush each skewer with olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt over them to enhance the flavors.
5. Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until you see nice grill marks.
6. During the last minute of grilling, brush the skewers with the honey mustard glaze. The sugar in the honey will caramelize quickly, so keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
7. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a minute before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite succulent.

Absolutely delightful, these skewers offer a juicy texture with a perfect balance of sweetness from the pineapple and a tangy kick from the honey mustard. Serve them over a bed of rice or with a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Mediterranean veggie skewers with hummus

Kickstart your culinary adventure with these Mediterranean veggie skewers paired with creamy hummus, a dish that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is simple to prepare. Perfect for beginners, this recipe will guide you through each step to ensure delicious results every time.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of cherry tomatoes
• 1 large zucchini, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
• A couple of tablespoons of olive oil
• A splash of lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, just a pinch
• 1 cup of store-bought or homemade hummus

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, about 375°F.
2. Thread the cherry tomatoes, zucchini chunks, bell pepper pieces, and red onion pieces onto skewers, alternating the vegetables for a colorful effect.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture generously over the assembled skewers.
4. Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 10 minutes, turning them occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and have nice grill marks.
5. While the skewers are grilling, spread the hummus on a serving plate.
6. Once the skewers are done, arrange them over the hummus on the plate.

Unbelievably easy and bursting with flavor, these skewers offer a delightful contrast between the smoky grilled vegetables and the smooth, creamy hummus. Serve them as a stunning appetizer or a light main dish, perhaps with a side of warm pita bread for dipping.

Bacon-wrapped dates and goat cheese skewers

Ready to elevate your appetizer game with a dish that’s as easy to make as it is impressive? These bacon-wrapped dates and goat cheese skewers are the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and creamy, guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients

• A dozen Medjool dates, pitted
• 4 ounces of creamy goat cheese
• 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
• A splash of balsamic glaze for drizzling
• A couple of toothpicks or small skewers

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Carefully make a small slit in each date and stuff it with about a teaspoon of goat cheese. Don’t overfill, or the cheese will ooze out during cooking.
3. Wrap each stuffed date with a half-slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick or skewer. Tip: If the bacon isn’t sticking, a tiny dab of honey can act as glue.
4. Arrange the wrapped dates on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re not touching to allow for even cooking.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden. Tip: Flip them halfway through to ensure all sides get equally crispy.
6. Once out of the oven, let them cool for a minute before drizzling with balsamic glaze. Tip: The glaze adds a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the dates, so don’t skip it!

Serve these skewers warm for the best texture contrast: crispy bacon, soft dates, and melty goat cheese. They’re perfect as a standalone appetizer or paired with a crisp salad for a light meal. The combination of flavors and textures makes each bite a delightful experience.

Tuna tartare cucumber bite skewers

Here’s how to whip up some refreshing tuna tartare cucumber bite skewers that are perfect for a light appetizer or a fancy snack. These bites are not only delicious but also a breeze to make, even if you’re just starting out in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of fresh tuna, diced into small cubes
• 1 large cucumber, sliced into thick rounds
• A splash of soy sauce
• A couple of drops of sesame oil
• 1 tbsp of fresh lime juice
• A pinch of salt
• A handful of chives, finely chopped
• Small bamboo skewers, for serving

Instructions

1. Start by gently mixing the diced tuna with soy sauce, sesame oil, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Tip: Be careful not to overmix to keep the tuna’s texture intact.
2. Let the tuna mixture marinate in the fridge for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial for the flavors to meld together beautifully.
3. While the tuna is marinating, slice the cucumber into thick rounds, about 1/2 inch each. These will serve as the base for your skewers.
4. Once the tuna is ready, place a small spoonful of the mixture on top of each cucumber round. Tip: Use a melon baller for neat, uniform portions.
5. Garnish each bite with a sprinkle of chopped chives for a fresh, oniony crunch.
6. Carefully skewer each cucumber round with a bamboo skewer to make them easy to pick up and eat. Tip: Soak the skewers in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning if you plan to grill them lightly.

Fresh and vibrant, these tuna tartare cucumber bite skewers offer a delightful contrast between the creamy tuna and the crisp cucumber. Serve them on a platter with extra lime wedges for a zesty kick that’ll have your guests coming back for more.

Berry and yogurt parfait skewers

Gathering the freshest berries and creamy yogurt is the first step to creating these delightful Berry and Yogurt Parfait Skewers. Perfect for a quick breakfast or a fancy brunch, these skewers are as fun to make as they are to eat.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of Greek yogurt (go for the full-fat version for extra creaminess)
• A couple of handfuls of mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries work great)
• A splash of honey (about 2 tablespoons, but adjust based on your sweet tooth)
• A handful of granola (for that crunchy texture we all love)
• 6-8 wooden skewers (soak them in water for 10 minutes to prevent burning if you’re planning to grill them)

Instructions

1. Start by washing your berries under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. This ensures they’re clean and ready to eat.
2. Cut the strawberries into halves or quarters, depending on their size, to make them easier to skewer.
3. Take a wooden skewer and begin threading the berries onto it, alternating between the different types for a colorful effect. Tip: Leave a little space at the top of the skewer for easy handling.
4. Once all your skewers are loaded with berries, drizzle them lightly with honey. This adds a sweet glaze that complements the tartness of the yogurt.
5. In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with a splash of honey to sweeten it slightly. Tip: Stir gently to keep the yogurt thick and creamy.
6. Serve the skewers with a side of the sweetened yogurt and a sprinkle of granola for dipping. Tip: For an extra touch, you can grill the skewers for a minute on each side to slightly caramelize the honey.

With each bite, you’ll experience a delightful mix of creamy, crunchy, and juicy textures. These skewers are not only a treat to the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making them perfect for serving at your next gathering.

Thai beef salad skewers with peanut sauce

Whipping up a storm in the kitchen doesn’t have to be daunting, especially when it comes to creating something as vibrant and flavorful as Thai beef salad skewers with peanut sauce. Let’s break it down into simple, manageable steps to ensure your culinary adventure is as enjoyable as the dish itself.

Ingredients

• 1 lb of beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
• A couple of tablespoons of soy sauce
• A splash of lime juice
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• A handful of fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 cucumber, sliced into thin rounds
• A few leaves of romaine lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup of creamy peanut butter
• A dash of garlic powder
• 1/2 cup of coconut milk
• Skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix the beef strips with soy sauce, lime juice, and honey. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the fridge. Tip: The longer it marinates, the more flavorful the beef will be.
2. While the beef is marinating, prepare the peanut sauce by whisking together peanut butter, garlic powder, and coconut milk in a small bowl until smooth. Set aside.
3. Thread the marinated beef onto the soaked skewers. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat (about 375°F) and cook the skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the beef is cooked to your liking. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking.
4. In a large bowl, toss the cucumber slices and romaine lettuce with a bit of the peanut sauce to lightly coat.
5. Serve the beef skewers on a bed of the dressed salad, drizzling the remaining peanut sauce over the top. Tip: Garnish with chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

Marvel at the contrast of textures—the tender beef against the crisp vegetables, all brought together by the rich, creamy peanut sauce. For a fun twist, serve these skewers with a side of steamed jasmine rice or wrap them in lettuce leaves for a handheld option.

Pesto mozzarella and tomato skewers

Let’s dive into making these vibrant pesto mozzarella and tomato skewers, a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors that are as fun to assemble as they are to eat.

Ingredients

• A couple of cups of cherry tomatoes
• About 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella balls (the small ones)
• A good handful of fresh basil leaves
• A splash of olive oil
• A pinch of salt
• A few wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

1. Start by washing your cherry tomatoes and patting them dry to ensure your skewers aren’t watery.
2. Drain the mozzarella balls and pat them dry too; this helps the pesto stick better.
3. Take a basil leaf, place a mozzarella ball on top, and gently wrap the leaf around it. This little bundle is going on your skewer next.
4. Thread a cherry tomato onto the skewer, followed by your mozzarella bundle, and repeat the pattern until the skewer is full but not overcrowded.
5. Drizzle each skewer with a splash of olive oil and a pinch of salt to enhance all those fresh flavors.
6. Tip: If you’re making these ahead of time, cover them with a damp paper towel to keep everything fresh until serving.
7. Tip: For an extra flavor kick, you can brush the skewers with a bit of homemade or store-bought pesto before serving.
8. Tip: Always soak your wooden skewers to prevent them from burning if you decide to give these a quick grill for a smoky flavor.

What you’ll love about these skewers is the burst of juicy tomato followed by the creamy mozzarella, all wrapped up in the fresh aroma of basil. They’re a hit at parties or as a light, refreshing snack on a warm day.

Spicy mango and shrimp skewers

Just when you thought summer couldn’t get any better, these spicy mango and shrimp skewers come along to prove you wrong. Perfect for grilling season, this dish combines sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in a way that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 ripe mangoes, cut into chunks
• a couple of tablespoons of olive oil
• a splash of lime juice
• 1 teaspoon of chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
• salt, just a pinch
• wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F to 400°F.
2. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt until evenly coated. Tip: Let the shrimp marinate for 10 minutes for extra flavor.
3. Thread the shrimp and mango chunks onto the soaked skewers, alternating between them. Tip: Leave a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
4. Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the grill to allow for proper heat circulation.
5. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a minute before serving.

Out of the grill, these skewers offer a delightful contrast between the juicy sweetness of mango and the spicy, succulent shrimp. Serve them over a bed of cilantro lime rice for a complete meal that screams summer.

Bruschetta skewers with basil and balsamic

Gathering around the table for a quick yet elegant appetizer has never been easier with these bruschetta skewers. Perfect for beginners, this recipe walks you through creating bite-sized delights that are as fun to make as they are to eat.

Ingredients

• A couple of French baguette slices, about 1/2 inch thick
• A handful of cherry tomatoes, halved
• A few fresh basil leaves, torn
• A splash of balsamic glaze
• A drizzle of olive oil
• A pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F to toast the baguette slices until golden, about 5 minutes per side. Tip: Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
2. Once toasted, let the slices cool slightly before assembling. This prevents the skewers from becoming soggy.
3. Thread a halved cherry tomato onto a skewer, followed by a piece of toasted baguette, and then a piece of torn basil leaf. Repeat the pattern until the skewer is full. Tip: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes beforehand to avoid charring.
4. Arrange the skewers on a serving platter and lightly drizzle with olive oil and a splash of balsamic glaze. Tip: For an even distribution, use a spoon to drizzle the glaze back and forth over the skewers.
5. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the top for that perfect finish.

Light and refreshing, these skewers offer a delightful crunch from the baguette, a juicy burst from the tomatoes, and a fragrant hint of basil. Serve them at your next gathering for a visually appealing and tasty starter that’s sure to impress.

Chicken satay skewers with coconut milk marinade

Alright, let’s dive into making these irresistible chicken satay skewers with a coconut milk marinade that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. This dish is perfect for a summer BBQ or a cozy indoor gathering, offering a delightful blend of flavors that’s easier to make than you might think.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs of chicken breast, cut into thin strips
• A cup of coconut milk
• A couple of tablespoons of soy sauce
• A splash of lime juice
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• A teaspoon of ground turmeric
• A tablespoon of brown sugar
• Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, ground turmeric, and brown sugar until well combined.
2. Add the chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked bamboo skewers, folding the strips accordion-style for even cooking.
4. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 375°F). Lightly oil the grate to prevent sticking.
5. Grill the skewers for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the grill to ensure each skewer cooks evenly.
6. Let the skewers rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Tip: This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender.

Perfectly grilled, these chicken satay skewers boast a juicy interior with a slightly charred exterior, infused with the aromatic flavors of coconut and turmeric. Serve them with a side of peanut sauce or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.

Pear and blue cheese walnut skewers

For those looking to impress at their next gathering, pear and blue cheese walnut skewers offer a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures. Follow these simple steps to create this elegant appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe pears, cored and cut into 1-inch chunks
• a cup of crumbled blue cheese
• a handful of walnut halves, lightly toasted
• a couple of tablespoons of honey
• a splash of balsamic glaze
• wooden skewers, about 6 inches long

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F to toast the walnuts for about 5 minutes, or until they’re fragrant and slightly golden. Tip: Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
2. While the walnuts are toasting, prepare the pears by coring and cutting them into 1-inch chunks. Tip: Choose pears that are firm but ripe for the best texture.
3. Once the walnuts are toasted, let them cool slightly before handling.
4. Begin assembling the skewers by threading a piece of pear, followed by a walnut half, and then a small chunk of blue cheese onto each skewer. Repeat the pattern until the skewer is full.
5. Arrange the assembled skewers on a serving platter and drizzle lightly with honey and a splash of balsamic glaze. Tip: The honey and balsamic glaze add a beautiful balance of sweetness and acidity, so don’t skip this step.

Kick back and watch as these skewers disappear at your next party. The combination of juicy pears, creamy blue cheese, and crunchy walnuts, all brought together with a sweet and tangy glaze, is irresistibly good. For an extra touch of elegance, serve them on a slate board with a drizzle of extra glaze on the side.

Marinated tofu and veggie skewers with soy glaze

Preparing marinated tofu and veggie skewers with soy glaze is simpler than you might think, and it’s a fantastic way to bring a burst of flavor to your table. Let’s walk through the process together, ensuring you end up with perfectly charred skewers every time.

Ingredients

• a block of firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• a couple of bell peppers, cut into chunks
• a medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
• a small red onion, cut into wedges
• a splash of olive oil
• a quarter cup of soy sauce
• a tablespoon of honey
• a teaspoon of grated ginger
• a clove of garlic, minced
• a pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Start by pressing the tofu for at least 30 minutes to remove excess water, then cut it into cubes. Tip: Use a tofu press or wrap the tofu in a clean towel and place a heavy book on top.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes to create the marinade.
3. Add the tofu cubes to the marinade, ensuring they’re fully coated, and let them sit for at least 1 hour in the fridge. Tip: The longer you marinate, the more flavorful the tofu will be.
4. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, about 375°F, and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
5. Thread the marinated tofu, bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion onto skewers, alternating the ingredients for a colorful presentation.
6. Grill the skewers for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until you see nice grill marks and the veggies are tender-crisp. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skewers to ensure even cooking.
7. Brush the skewers with any remaining marinade during the last minute of grilling for an extra glossy finish.

Lightly charred with a sweet and savory glaze, these skewers offer a delightful contrast of textures. Serve them over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or alongside a crisp Asian slaw for a complete meal.

Summary

Absolutely delightful, these 20 Refreshing Cold Appetizer Skewers offer a treasure trove of flavors perfect for any gathering. We hope you’re inspired to whip up these easy, tasty treats. Don’t forget to leave a comment with your favorite skewer and share the love by pinning this article on Pinterest. Happy cooking!