Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the summer sun streaming through the window, inspiration struck. I craved something light and refreshing to grace my next gathering, and then it hit me—these vibrant Cheese and Grape Skewers! With a delightful mix of juicy grapes, nutty gouda, and salty prosciutto, they’re not just beautiful to behold but also a breeze to whip up in just 15 minutes. These gluten-free appetizers are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a cozy evening with friends. Packed with flavor and color, they’re a wholesome option that feels indulgent without the guilt. Curious to learn how to bring this tasteful twist to your table? Let’s dive into this simple yet stunning recipe! Why Make Cheese and Grape Skewers? Simplicity at its finest: You can whip these up in just 15 minutes, making them a go-to for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Vibrant flavors of sweet grapes and savory prosciutto create an irresistible combination that your guests will rave about. Customizable to suit your taste, feel free to swap in different cheeses like sharp cheddar or experiment with fresh fruit alternatives such as seasonal pears. Healthy indulgence shines through these gluten-free skewers, with only 49 calories each, ensuring you can snack guilt-free. These skewers are perfect for serving at any event, just like my popular Broccoli Cheese Rounds or Oreo Cheesecake Decadent. Cheese and Grape Skewers Ingredients • Here’s everything you need! For the Skewers Red Seedless Grapes – Adds a delightful sweetness and vibrant color; try green grapes for a fun twist. Green Seedless Grapes – These tart grapes balance the sweetness of red ones perfectly. Arugula Leaves – Offers a peppery freshness; substitute with spinach or mixed greens if desired. Gouda Cheese – Provides nutty richness; feel free to use sharp cheddar or brie for variety. Prosciutto – Infuses a savory quality; swap with turkey bacon or omit for a vegetarian version. Wooden Appetizer Toothpicks – Essential for easy assembly; if you don’t have these, small skewers do the trick. Balsamic Glaze (Optional) – Enhances the dish with a sweet-tangy note; balsamic vinegar can be a lighter alternative. Let’s get ready to create these colorful Cheese and Grape Skewers that will impress every guest! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheese and Grape Skewers Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients Start by washing the red and green seedless grapes under cool running water, then gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Ensure you remove any stems or bruised grapes. This prep will give you fresh, sweet grapes for your cheese and grape skewers, enhancing the overall flavor and appearance of your delightful appetizer. Step 2: Assemble the Skewers Take a wooden appetizer toothpick and thread one red grape onto it, leaving a little space at the top for ease of handling. This first grape will serve as the vibrant anchor point for your cheese and grape skewer and sets the tone for a colorful presentation that’s pleasing to the eye as well as the palate. Step 3: Add the Arugula Fold 1-2 arugula leaves in half, then carefully skewer them just beneath the red grape. This peppery green not only adds a delightful crunch but also a pop of color. The arugula complements the sweetness of the grapes, making your cheese and grape skewers even more flavorful and visually appealing. Step 4: Insert the Gouda Cheese Next, add a cube of gouda cheese below the arugula. Aim for a piece that’s roughly the same size as the grape for a balanced bite. The creamy, nutty richness of the gouda pairs perfectly with the grapes, creating a wonderful contrast in flavors as you build your delightful skewers. Step 5: Layer in the Prosciutto Take a slice of prosciutto, fold it neatly, and slide it onto the skewer right beneath the gouda. This salty addition elevates your cheese and grape skewers, contributing a savory depth that beautifully balances the sweetness of the fruits. The texture will vary with each bite, enhancing the overall experience. Step 6: Finish with the Green Grape Complete the skewer by threading a green grape beneath the prosciutto. This tart little gem will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness above it. As you assemble these skewers, the combination of hues and textures will ensure they are visually stunning, making them a standout appetizer. Step 7: Repeat the Process Continue the assembly process, creating additional skewers with the same layering method until all your ingredients are used. Aim for an attractive mix of red and green grapes alongside the gouda and prosciutto. As you build your cheese and grape skewers, the simplicity of the assembly allows for creativity in how you arrange each colorful piece. Step 8: Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze If desired, finish your assembled skewers with a light drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tangy, sweet note. This step is optional, but it adds a delightful touch that enhances the flavor. Arrange your cheese and grape skewers on a serving platter, and they are now ready to impress your guests at any gathering. Cheese and Grape Skewers Variations Feel free to personalize your cheese and grape skewers with these delightful twists and swaps to enhance flavors and textures! Seasonal Fruits: Substitute grapes with sliced apples or pears for a refreshing fall twist. The added sweetness pairs beautifully with cheese. Herbed Greens: Replace arugula with fresh basil or mint for an aromatic lift. These herbs will introduce a burst of freshness to every bite. Cheese Variety: Try blue cheese or goat cheese instead of gouda for a tangy kick. These choices create a bold flavor profile that’s sure to impress. Vegan Option: Leave out prosciutto and use marinated tofu or tempeh for heartiness. These alternatives make the skewers both satisfying and completely plant-based. Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the layering. This heat transforms your skewers into a flavorful party starter. Fruit Glaze: Swap balsamic glaze for a honey drizzle or a splash of fruit preserves. This change enhances the sweetness and adds a lovely glossy finish. Nutty Crunch: Toss in a few slivers of almonds or walnuts between the cheese and prosciutto for added crunch and a nutty flavor contrast. This twist will elevate the texture experience. Zesty Citrus: Add a twist of lemon or lime zest to your assembly for a zesty aroma that beautifully compliments the other ingredients. The brightness will refresh your palate wonderfully! Enjoy your creative journey as you craft these stunning skewers; you might just discover a new family favorite! For more amazing ideas, check out my beloved Chicken Cheese Zucchini or treat yourself to a bite of the delicious Blueberry Crumble Cheesecake. Make Ahead Options These Cheese and Grape Skewers are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can assemble the skewers up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, ensuring they stay fresh and colorful. To maintain quality, make sure to keep the balsamic glaze separate until just before serving to prevent sogginess. If you’re prepping more than a day ahead, consider storing the ingredients separately and assembling them just a few hours before serving to preserve their vibrant look and texture. When you’re ready to impress your guests, simply drizzle with balsamic glaze and serve chilled or at room temperature, offering you a stunning appetizer with minimal effort! How to Store and Freeze Cheese and Grape Skewers Fridge: Store any leftover cheese and grape skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain their freshness and flavor. Room Temperature: If you’re serving these skewers, they can sit out for about 1-2 hours at room temperature, making them ideal for parties and gatherings. Make-Ahead: Assemble the skewers the day before your event; just make sure to keep them in the fridge until ready to serve for maximum freshness. Freezer: While it’s best to enjoy these skewers fresh, if you must freeze them, place them in a single layer in an airtight container; consume within 1 month for the best quality (note: texture may change after thawing). Expert Tips for Cheese and Grape Skewers Assemble Last Minute: For the freshest appearance and flavor, assemble your cheese and grape skewers just before serving. This keeps everything crisp and vibrant. Child-Friendly Sizes: Consider cutting grapes in half for younger kids or smaller bites to make them easier to handle. Safety first! Airtight Storage: If you have leftovers, store the skewers in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 3-4 days to maintain their quality. Alternate Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to customize! Swap out gouda for cheddar or try seasonal fruits like pears. This keeps your cheese and grape skewers exciting and fresh. Presentation Matters: Arrange your skewers in a colorful pattern on a platter for a striking display. Presentation enhances the dining experience! Perfect Pairings: Serve these skewers with light cocktails or wine to elevate their flavor and make your gathering more festive. What to Serve with Cheese and Grape Skewers? Delight your guests and elevate your gathering with delicious accompaniments that enhance these vibrant skewers. Creamy Hummus: Smooth and nutty, hummus provides a lovely dip that complements the skewers’ flavors and adds a creamy texture. Herbed Quinoa Salad: Fresh herbs and a light lemon dressing in quinoa salad bring bright flavors and a satisfying chewiness that balances the sweetness of the skewers. Sparkling White Wine: A bubbly wine refreshes the palate and pairs beautifully with the sweet, salty, and creamy elements of cheese and grape skewers. Roasted Vegetable Platter: A mix of roasted seasonal vegetables adds earthy and smoky flavors, making a hearty contrast to the lightness of your skewers. Crispy Flatbreads: Their crunchy texture makes for a delightful contrast, and they can be used to scoop up any extra cheese and balsamic glaze. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: Offer a sweet end to your meal that echoes the fruit theme while introducing a rich, luscious dessert element. These pairings not only enhance the dining experience, but they also create an enchanting atmosphere, bringing warmth and joy to your table. Cheese and Grape Skewers Recipe FAQs What type of grapes should I use? I recommend using seedless red grapes for their sweetness and vibrant color, paired with green grapes for their tartness. If you’re in the mood for a twist, feel free to swap them for seasonal fruits like pears or apples during the colder months. How should I store leftover Cheese and Grape Skewers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This helps keep them fresh and retains the delicious flavors. I often make these ahead of time and enjoy them over a couple of days! Can I freeze Cheese and Grape Skewers? While it’s best to enjoy these tasty skewers fresh, if you need to freeze them, place them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will retain their quality for up to 1 month, but be aware that the texture may change upon thawing. Make sure to enjoy them soon after! What if I can’t find prosciutto? Absolutely! If prosciutto isn’t available or you want a vegetarian option, you can substitute it with turkey bacon, or simply skip it altogether. The skewers will still be delightful and full of flavor with just the grapes and cheese! How long can Cheese and Grape Skewers sit out at room temperature? These skewers are perfect for gatherings as they can sit out for about 1-2 hours at room temperature. They are ideal for parties where guests can snack at their leisure. Just be mindful of the warmer conditions if it’s particularly hot outside! Are Cheese and Grape Skewers gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, assuming no gluten products are introduced—like bread or croutons. Always check the labels of any pre-packaged ingredients like balsamic glaze to ensure they align with your dietary needs. Enjoy this guilt-free treat! Cheese and Grape Skewers: A Quick, Colorful Appetizer Delight These vibrant Cheese and Grape Skewers combine juicy grapes, nutty gouda, and savory prosciutto for a quick, gluten-free appetizer delight. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 15 minutes mins Servings: 4 skewersCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 49 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Skewers1 cup Red Seedless Grapes Adds a delightful sweetness and vibrant color; try green grapes for a fun twist.1 cup Green Seedless Grapes These tart grapes balance the sweetness of red ones perfectly.1 cup Arugula Leaves Offers a peppery freshness; substitute with spinach or mixed greens if desired.1 cup Gouda Cheese Provides nutty richness; feel free to use sharp cheddar or brie for variety.4 slices Prosciutto Infuses a savory quality; swap with turkey bacon or omit for a vegetarian version.1 pack Wooden Appetizer Toothpicks Essential for easy assembly; if you don't have these, small skewers do the trick.2 tablespoons Balsamic Glaze Enhances the dish with a sweet-tangy note; balsamic vinegar can be a lighter alternative. Equipment Wooden appetizer toothpicks Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheese and Grape SkewersStart by washing the red and green seedless grapes under cool running water, then gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Ensure you remove any stems or bruised grapes.Take a wooden appetizer toothpick and thread one red grape onto it, leaving a little space at the top for ease of handling.Fold 1-2 arugula leaves in half, then carefully skewer them just beneath the red grape.Add a cube of gouda cheese below the arugula, aiming for a piece that’s roughly the same size as the grape.Take a slice of prosciutto, fold it neatly, and slide it onto the skewer right beneath the gouda.Complete the skewer by threading a green grape beneath the prosciutto.Continue the assembly process, creating additional skewers with the same layering method until all your ingredients are used.If desired, finish your assembled skewers with a light drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tangy, sweet note. Nutrition Serving: 1skewerCalories: 49kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 2gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 8mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 130mgSugar: 6gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 0.5mg NotesAssemble last minute for freshest appearance and flavor. Optional to customize with different cheeses or fruits. Best served fresh but can be stored for 3-4 days in an airtight container. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!