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Caprese Skewers: A Bite-Sized Boost for Your Mood and Mind? | Mental Health Recipes

By Krista

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Last Updated: August 15, 2023

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Simple and easy is where it’s at, and these Caprese skewers are no exception.

I’d argue that they don’t even take 15 minutes to make (as the recipe claims). And they are especially good if you’re looking for a last-minute appetizer or want a simple but healthy snack.

I can’t even count how many times I’ve made these delicious bites. And there’s more to them than the ease of making them or eating them. This recipe also gives way to plenty of mood-boosting benefits.

So, let’s dig in.

  • How can you make these in a mere 15 minutes?
  • And how exactly do these foods combine to elevate your mood and mind?

 

 

Flavorful Bites for a Brighter Day: Your Easy Caprese Summer Skewers

This dish delights both your taste buds and your mood.

Plus, I can’t stress enough how easy these are to make. They're one of my summer go-tos for this very reason.

So, let’s gather our ingredients and throw this quick one together for some serious flavor and enjoyment.

 

 

How Can Caprese Skewers Help You Beat the Blues?

Since this recipe is ultra-easy, let’s break these mood-boosting effects down ingredient by ingredient. 

1. Mozzarella contains tryptophan.

Cheese can be a great mood stabilizer. In particular, mozzarella contains the amino acid tryptophan, which contributes to the production of serotonin. Not to mention, who doesn’t love cheese?

This ingredient also adds a little bit of protein, which can help balance blood sugar and keep your energy and mood stable. 

 

2. Basil might just help combat depression.

Good ol’ regular basil offers plenty of mental health benefits. Basil contains plenty of antioxidants, which can help lower inflammation in the body. In turn, this may prevent various mental health disorders and other chronic diseases, like heart disease, diabetes, and more.

It’s further thought that basil may help with blood sugar regulation, attributing to a better mood and stable energy. It also has antibacterial properties, which can keep both our mind and body in tip-top shape.

 

3. Tomatoes can improve your mood!

Some studies show how tomatoes can reduce the incidence of depression by over 40%. Eating plenty of this red fruit (yes, it’s a fruit!) might also help reduce already existing depression symptoms. 

Scientists theorize that antioxidants might be behind this goodness as well. Tomatoes have key antioxidants, like lycopene and beta-carotene, that can protect the brain and brain cells from harm. 

 

4. Balsamic vinegar contributes to many health benefits that can impact how you feel.

Balsamic vinegar is a fan favorite in dressings, sauces, and marinades. But it also comes with plenty of health benefits.

In fact, balsamic vinegar is associated with:

  • improved digestion
  • reduced blood sugar
  • improved skin health
  • and better blood circulation

Inevitably, our mental health and physical health don’t work in separate bubbles. When one improves, so does the other. With improved skin health and digestion, we might feel more confident and also have more energy. Same goes for better blood sugar regulation. 

Plus, balsamic vinegar adds a nice, tangy, and sweet taste to any recipe, including this one! Without it, this recipe simply isn’t the same.

Related Article: 4 Scientific Reasons Why Moving Your Body Boosts Your Mental State

Credit:TolikoffPhotography

 

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Caprese Skewers: A Bite-Sized Boost for Your Mood and Mind

Prep time:
15 minutes
Cook time:
Total time:
15 minutes
Recipe Category:
tomatoes
Ingredients:
  • 24 cherry tomatoes
  • 12 mini mozzarella balls
  • 24 pieces of basil leaves
  • Balsamic vinegar for drizzling
  • Toothpicks
Instructions:
  1. Place a tomato, small cheese ball, and a basil leaf on each toothpick.
  2. Lay them out on a plate, and drizzle a bit of balsamic vinegar across all of them.
  3. Serve and enjoy!

Inevitably, you can also jazz these up with other veggies or even add olive oil and balsamic over top. However, they are also perfect, just as they are.

Related Article: Feeling Down and Out? Hit the Kitchen With This Tuna Casserole

Yield (servings):
4 servings

Enjoy These Bite-Size Bits Today!

They are super easy and barely require any preparation. Make this a go-to in your summer diet for improved health and a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. 

Read Next: 5 Tested Tips to Turn That Grumpy Mood Around In No Time

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