Balsamic Strawberry Caprese Salad

Balsamic Strawberry Caprese Salad is a fresh and colorful dish that brings the best of summer right to your table. Combining juicy strawberries, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, this salad is a delightful twist on the classic Caprese. The sweet balsamic glaze adds a rich touch, making this salad not just tasty but also visually appealing.

Why Make This Recipe

This salad is perfect for many occasions. It’s light and refreshing, so it’s great for hot days, potlucks, or family gatherings. The ingredients are easy to find, and it takes very little time to prepare. Plus, it is a beautiful way to showcase seasonal strawberries. Making this salad will impress your friends and family without requiring a lot of skill in the kitchen.

How to Make Balsamic Strawberry Caprese Salad

Making Balsamic Strawberry Caprese Salad is quick and simple. You just need to gather your ingredients, mix them together, and you’re ready to enjoy this tasty dish!

Ingredients:

1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
2 tbsp balsamic glaze
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions:

In a large bowl, combine the halved strawberries, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil.
Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Gently toss the ingredients to coat evenly and serve immediately.

How to Serve Balsamic Strawberry Caprese Salad

Serve this salad as a refreshing appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course. It pairs well with grilled meats and picnic foods. To make the presentation even nicer, you can layer the ingredients on a platter rather than mixing them in a bowl. This will highlight the vibrant colors and textures.

How to Store Balsamic Strawberry Caprese Salad

If you have leftovers, you can store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to eat it fresh, as the strawberries may get mushy after a day. If you need to prepare it in advance, consider storing the ingredients separately and mixing them just before serving.

Tips to Make Balsamic Strawberry Caprese Salad

Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Look for ones that are bright red and fragrant.
You can substitute balsamic glaze with homemade balsamic reduction if you prefer.
For added flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Variation

Feel free to add other ingredients to this salad. Sliced avocados or nuts like walnuts or pecans can give it a nice crunch. You can also use different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, for a unique twist.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A1: It is best to serve the salad fresh for the best taste. If needed, you can keep ingredients separate and combine them just before serving.

Q2: What can I use instead of mozzarella?
A2: You can try using feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

Q3: Is balsamic glaze necessary?
A3: While balsamic glaze enhances the flavor, you can use regular balsamic vinegar if you don’t have it. Just be sure to drizzle it lightly, as it can be more potent.