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Balsamic strawberry caprese salad with fresh strawberries, mozzarella, and basil
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Balsamic Strawberry Caprese

A refreshing combination of strawberries, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time10 minutes
Total Time10 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Keyword: Balsamic Strawberry Caprese, Caprese Salad, Fresh Ingredients, Strawberry Salad, Summer Recipe
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 150kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, halved or sliced bursting with juicy sweetness
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, either cubed or in pearls offering a rich, creamy texture
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or in chiffonade for that earthy aromatic finish
  • 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds or pine nuts (optional) adding a delightful crunch to the dish

Dressing Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil contributing smoothness and flavor depth
  • 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (or aged balsamic vinegar) giving the dish a sweet-tart essence
  • 1 tsp honey (optional) for extra sweetness, balancing acidity
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper to spice things up just a notch
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt to enhance the overall flavor profile

Instructions

Combine Ingredients

  • In a large serving bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and mozzarella. Toss in the fresh basil and, if desired, the toasted nuts for an additional crunchy texture.

Make the Dressing

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic glaze, honey (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well blended.

Drizzle and Toss

  • Drizzle the balsamic dressing over the salad, and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly. Be careful not to mush the strawberries or mozzarella!

Garnish and Serve

  • To finish, garnish the salad with extra basil leaves for presentation and serve immediately as a light, refreshing appetizer or side dish that everyone will love!

Notes

For the best flavor, use ripe strawberries that are in season. Add a sprinkle of feta cheese for a tangy twist. If you prefer a bit of a kick, consider incorporating sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes. To save time, prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving. Use a good quality balsamic glaze for a rich, robust flavor that will elevate your salad.