Balsamic Strawberry Caprese Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s as stunning as it is simple, look no further than this Balsamic Strawberry Caprese. Juicy, sun-ripened strawberries mingle with velvety mozzarella and fragrant basil, all drizzled with tangy-sweet balsamic glaze. This salad reinvents the classic caprese by introducing strawberries for the ultimate summer twist, making every bite a burst of color, flavor, and freshness. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, this is a salad you’ll crave all season long!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Balsamic Strawberry Caprese lies in just a handful of fresh, quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating a salad that’s vibrant, balanced, and truly unforgettable. Here’s what you’ll need, and why each item matters:
- Fresh Strawberries: For the best result, pick ripe, red strawberries—they’ll add a pop of sweetness and gorgeous color to every plate.
- Fresh Mozzarella Balls (Bocconcini or Ciliegine): These little cheese balls offer creamy, milky richness that soaks up the balsamic beautifully.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Sweet basil brings a peppery aroma and a classic Italian flair, perfectly tying all the flavors together.
- Balsamic Glaze: A syrupy drizzle of balsamic reduces acidity and intensifies sweetness, delivering the classic caprese tang with a twist.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The key to luscious texture and richness—choose a bold, buttery oil for maximum flavor.
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Just a light touch enhances the layers of flavor and keeps things perfectly seasoned.
How to Make Balsamic Strawberry Caprese
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Begin by washing and hulling your strawberries, then slice them in half for easy, bite-size pieces. Drain the mozzarella balls and pat them dry—they’ll hold onto the dressing better that way. Gently wash and dry your basil leaves so they stay perky and bright.
Step 2: Arrange the Salad
Let’s get artistic! On a serving platter or in a wide, shallow bowl, alternate the strawberry halves, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves. Don’t worry about being too precise—the beauty of a Balsamic Strawberry Caprese is in its rustic, colorful layers. Layering ensures every forkful gets a little of everything.
Step 3: Drizzle and Dress
Generously drizzle the arranged ingredients with balsamic glaze, letting it puddle around the fruit and cheese. Follow with a swirl of extra virgin olive oil. This combination melds all the flavors together while giving the salad that glossy, irresistible finish.
Step 4: Season to Taste
Sprinkle flaky sea salt and plenty of freshly ground black pepper over the top. If you’d like an extra burst of flavor or a nod to tradition, add a tiny touch more basil or a dash of crushed pistachios.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
This Balsamic Strawberry Caprese tastes best when served right away—the flavors are at their peak and the textures delightfully fresh. Whether served as an appetizer or a creative side, watch it disappear in minutes!
How to Serve Balsamic Strawberry Caprese
Garnishes
Finish your Balsamic Strawberry Caprese with a flourish! A shower of torn basil leaves or a scattering of crushed pistachios can add delightful color and crunch. For a fancy touch, shave a bit of lemon zest or crack a little extra black pepper on top—your guests will be dazzled by the tiny details.
Side Dishes
Balsamic Strawberry Caprese is remarkably versatile. It pairs beautifully with crusty baguette, herby focaccia, or even grilled chicken for a light lunch. The sweet and savory notes also complement roasted veggies, chilled gazpacho, or a platter of Italian cured meats.
Creative Ways to Present
There’s no limit to how you can showcase this dish! Skewer the ingredients onto toothpicks for effortless party finger food, pile them onto individual crostini for a passed appetizer, or layer on a bed of peppery arugula for a heartier salad. The vibrant colors and tempting flavors will always steal the show!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you wind up with extras (rare, but possible), transfer your Balsamic Strawberry Caprese to an airtight container and refrigerate. The salad will keep for up to 2 days, though the strawberries may release some juice and the basil can wilt slightly. It’s still delicious for lunch the next day!
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for Balsamic Strawberry Caprese. Fresh mozzarella and strawberries don’t hold up well in the freezer and may become watery or lose their texture once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.
Reheating
No reheating is needed—this salad shines served chilled or at room temperature. Simply give it a gentle toss and, if needed, refresh with a quick extra drizzle of balsamic glaze or olive oil before serving again.
FAQs
Can I use a different fruit besides strawberries?
Absolutely! Try ripe peaches, fresh cherries, or even watermelon for a unique spin. Each offers a different kind of sweetness and pairs delightfully with mozzarella and basil.
Is it okay to make Balsamic Strawberry Caprese ahead of time?
It’s best to assemble just before serving for peak freshness, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead and store them separately. Layer and dress just before your guests arrive for the perfect texture and flavor.
What’s the difference between balsamic glaze and balsamic vinegar?
Balsamic glaze is thick, sweet, and syrupy due to reduction, while balsamic vinegar is thinner and tangier. For this salad, glaze provides a luxurious finish and clings beautifully to the ingredients.
Can I make it vegan?
Definitely! Swap the mozzarella for a vegan cheese alternative or cubes of marinated tofu, and ensure your balsamic glaze contains no animal-derived ingredients.
How can I add more protein to this dish?
Try sprinkling toasted pistachios, adding prosciutto on the side, or even tossing in a handful of chickpeas. Each of these options boosts protein while complimenting the salad’s flavors.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the way sweet strawberries, creamy mozzarella, and tangy balsamic come together in this Balsamic Strawberry Caprese. It’s a celebration of summer and freshness that always wows a crowd—and comes together in moments. Give it a try at your next gathering or as a special treat for yourself; it might just become your new go-to salad!
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Balsamic Strawberry Caprese Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
A delightful twist on the classic Caprese salad, this Balsamic Strawberry Caprese features juicy strawberries, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic glaze and olive oil. It’s a perfect summer appetizer or light side dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
Strawberry Caprese:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and halved)
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Arrange Ingredients: Place halved strawberries, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves on a serving platter or in a bowl.
- Drizzle Dressing: Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Serve immediately as an appetizer or side dish.
Notes
- For added sweetness, macerate the strawberries in a teaspoon of sugar for 10 minutes before assembling.
- You can also add a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for extra texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (about 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
