If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant, and slightly unexpected twist on the classic Caprese salad, this Balsamic Strawberry Caprese is a game-changer! Juicy strawberries, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil come together in a sweet and savory masterpiece, all tied together with a drizzle of rich balsamic glaze. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never look at Caprese the same way again!
Why You’ll Love Balsamic Strawberry Caprese
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating a dish that’s bursting with summer flavors and elegance. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a light lunch, or a side dish, this salad is guaranteed to impress.
Versatile: Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or a quick weekday salad.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, fresh ingredients that are easy to find.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just minutes with minimal prep.
Customizable: Swap the cheese, add nuts, or play with different herbs to make it your own.
Crowd-Pleasing: The sweet and tangy combination is a hit with everyone, even those who aren’t big fans of traditional Caprese!
Ingredients
Ingredients in Balsamic Strawberry Caprese
This salad is all about fresh, high-quality ingredients. Let’s break it down:
Strawberries: The star of the show! Sweet, juicy, and bursting with flavor.
Mozzarella: Soft, creamy mozzarella balances the sweetness of the berries. Use fresh mozzarella or burrata for extra creaminess.
Fresh Basil: The perfect herb to bring in that classic Caprese flavor.
Balsamic Glaze: Adds a deep, tangy sweetness that ties everything together beautifully.
Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances the flavors and gives a rich, smooth finish.
Salt and Pepper: Just a touch to enhance the natural flavors of each ingredient.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this vibrant salad:
Slice the Strawberries and Mozzarella: Hull and slice the strawberries, then cut the mozzarella into even slices or small pieces.
Layer the Ingredients: Arrange the strawberries, mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves on a serving plate. You can layer them like a traditional Caprese or toss them together for a more rustic look.
Drizzle with Olive Oil and Balsamic Glaze: Lightly drizzle olive oil over the salad, followed by the balsamic glaze. A little goes a long way, so start small and add more if needed.
Season to Perfection: Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Serve and Enjoy: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so serve immediately and dig in!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 180
Notes:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
How to Serve Balsamic Strawberry Caprese
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
- Serve with crusty bread or crostini to soak up the delicious balsamic glaze.
- Add a handful of arugula for an extra peppery bite.
- Pair with grilled chicken or steak for a complete meal.
- Enjoy it as a light summer appetizer or side dish with pasta.
- Try it with toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for added crunch.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to get the most out of this recipe:
- Use high-quality balsamic glaze for the best flavor—aged balsamic works wonders!
- For extra creaminess, swap mozzarella for burrata.
- If you like a bit of heat, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Want more texture? Toss in some toasted pine nuts or pecans.
- Make it extra fancy with a drizzle of honey for a sweet twist.
FAQ’s
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients separately and assemble just before serving.
2. What can I use instead of mozzarella?
Try burrata, goat cheese, or feta for a different flavor twist.
3. Can I use regular balsamic vinegar instead of glaze?
Yes! Just reduce balsamic vinegar on the stove until it thickens into a glaze.
4. Is this salad keto-friendly?
Yes! Just watch the balsamic glaze, as it contains natural sugars.
5. Can I add other fruits?
Absolutely! Peaches, cherries, or even watermelon work well.
6. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day, but the basil may wilt.
7. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is highly recommended for the best flavor and texture.
8. What’s the best olive oil to use?
Extra virgin olive oil with a mild, fruity flavor complements this salad best.
9. Can I add a protein to make it a full meal?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or prosciutto are great additions.
10. What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé pairs beautifully.
Conclusion
This Balsamic Strawberry Caprese is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, creamy, and fresh. Whether you’re making it for a summer picnic, a fancy appetizer, or just a quick and delicious meal, it’s a dish that delivers on flavor every time. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked!
Print
Balsamic Strawberry Caprese
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad, Appetizer
- Method: Assembling and Drizzling
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing twist on the classic Caprese salad, featuring fresh strawberries, ripe tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. Finished with a tangy balsamic reduction and olive oil drizzle, this salad is both vibrant and flavorful.
Ingredients
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1 tsp honey for extra sweetness
Instructions
1. Arrange alternating slices of strawberry, tomato, and mozzarella on a serving platter.
2. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the slices.
3. In a small saucepan, bring the balsamic vinegar to a simmer over medium heat. Allow it to reduce by half (approximately 8-10 minutes) until it becomes a thick glaze.
4. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic reduction evenly over the arranged salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, drizzle with a bit of honey for added sweetness.
6. Serve immediately, or chill briefly for a cooler, refreshing experience.
Notes
– Best served fresh to enjoy the vibrant textures and flavors.
– For an extra burst of flavor, add a sprinkle of cracked black pepper right before serving.
– This salad makes a lovely appetizer or a light meal on a warm day.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving plate
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg