Balsamic Strawberry Caprese: A Fresh Twist on a Classic Salad
Balsamic Strawberry Caprese is a fresh and delightful twist on the classic Caprese salad, combining sweet, ripe strawberries with creamy mozzarella and aromatic fresh basil, all drizzled with a rich and tangy balsamic reduction. This easy-to-make salad is perfect as a light appetizer or refreshing snack, offering a beautiful presentation and a harmonious blend of sweet, creamy, and herbal flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook assembly with simmering balsamic reduction
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Fresh Ingredients
- 1 pint ripe strawberries, washed and sliced ¼ inch thick
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into rounds or drained if using balls
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
Balsamic Reduction
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
Optional Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon high-quality olive oil, for drizzling
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of sea salt, to taste
Instructions
- Wash and Slice Strawberries: Rinse the strawberries thoroughly under cold water to remove dirt and pesticides. Gently pat them dry with a paper towel. Slice each strawberry into thin slices about ¼ inch thick to ensure they blend well with the mozzarella.
- Prepare Mozzarella: If using a large piece of fresh mozzarella, slice it into rounds similar in thickness to the strawberries. If using mozzarella balls, drain and pat them dry carefully to remove excess moisture and prevent sogginess in the salad.
- Make Balsamic Reduction: Pour the balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and simmer it over medium heat until it thickens and reduces by about half, forming a glaze consistency. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Assemble the Salad: On a serving platter, alternate slices of strawberries and mozzarella in a circular or row pattern. Tear fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them evenly over the top, releasing their aromatic oils.
- Drizzle and Season: Pour the balsamic reduction evenly over the assembled salad. Optionally, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper and a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavor balance.
- Serve: Serve immediately as a refreshing appetizer or light snack. Enjoy the beautiful colors and vibrant flavors!
Notes
- Use the freshest strawberries and mozzarella for the best flavor and texture.
- The balsamic reduction can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- For an extra creamy twist, substitute fresh mozzarella with burrata cheese.
- Be careful with salt; a little goes a long way in enhancing sweetness.
- This salad is best served immediately to maintain freshness and to prevent the mozzarella from becoming soggy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
Keywords: Balsamic Strawberry Caprese, Strawberry Salad, Caprese Salad, Fresh Mozzarella, Balsamic Reduction, Summer Salad, Easy Appetizer, Vegetarian Salad
