Balsamic Strawberry Caprese

Fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, this Balsamic Strawberry Caprese is a delightful twist on the classic Caprese salad. Juicy strawberries pair beautifully with creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a rich balsamic glaze to create a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. Whether you serve it as a starter, side dish, or light lunch, it’s sure to impress with its unique blend of sweet and savory.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fresh & Seasonal – Takes advantage of peak-season strawberries.
Simple & Elegant – Minimal ingredients with maximum flavor.
Sweet Meets Savory – A perfect balance of fruitiness, creaminess, and tang.
Perfect for Entertaining – Beautiful presentation and a crowd-pleaser.
Healthy & Light – Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained
½ cup fresh basil leaves
2 tbsp balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste

Tools You’ll Need
Large serving platter or salad bowl
Small bowl for glaze (if making homemade)
Sharp knife
Salad tongs or serving spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Wash and hull the strawberries, then slice them in half lengthwise.
2. Drain the mozzarella balls and pat dry with a paper towel.
3. Rinse basil leaves gently and pat dry.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

1. On a large platter or in a shallow bowl, alternate layers of strawberries, mozzarella, and basil leaves.
2. For a more artistic presentation, scatter them randomly but evenly across the platter.
3. Drizzle olive oil evenly over the top.

Step 3: Add the Balsamic Glaze

1. Drizzle balsamic glaze in a zigzag pattern across the entire salad.
2. Use more or less depending on your preference for sweetness and acidity.

Step 4: Season and Serve

1. Sprinkle lightly with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
2. Serve immediately as a refreshing appetizer or side dish.

Tips for Success
Use Fresh Ingredients – Ripe strawberries and high-quality mozzarella make all the difference.
Don’t Overdo the Glaze – A little goes a long way; it should enhance, not overpower.
Make Ahead Tip – Assemble the salad up to 1 hour ahead without the glaze and dressing. Add just before serving.
Room Temperature – Let ingredients sit out for 10–15 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Serving Suggestions
Grilled Chicken – Serve alongside grilled or baked chicken for a complete meal.
Crusty Bread – Add some slices of toasted baguette or ciabatta to soak up the balsamic glaze.
Outdoor Entertaining – Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or al fresco dining.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Best enjoyed fresh.
Avoid Freezing: The texture of strawberries and mozzarella will not hold up well in the freezer.

Reheating:
Not recommended – this salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes! Burrata or goat cheese also work beautifully in this salad.
2. What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?
   You can reduce balsamic vinegar over low heat until it thickens, or use a simple drizzle of balsamic vinegar for a lighter touch.
3. Is this recipe suitable for kids?
   Absolutely – the sweet strawberries make it appealing to younger palates too.
4. Can I add greens to this salad?
   Yes, arugula or baby spinach are great additions to bulk it up.

Final Thoughts
This Balsamic Strawberry Caprese salad is a fresh and flavorful update on a timeless classic. It’s ideal for warm-weather dining and special gatherings, and it delivers a delightful combination of textures and tastes that keep you coming back for more. Try it out at your next picnic or party and watch it disappear in minutes.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see how your dish turns out.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 180 | Protein: 8g | Carbohydrates: 10g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 220mg

Print