Balsamic Strawberry Caprese

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When summer strawberries are at their sweetest, it’s time to celebrate them in fresh and unexpected ways. This Balsamic Strawberry Caprese is a vibrant twist on the classic caprese salad, bringing together the sweetness of strawberries, the creaminess of fresh mozzarella, and the peppery bite of basil. Finished with a tangy balsamic glaze, it’s a refreshing, colorful dish that tastes like summer on a plate.

Perfect for brunches, garden parties, or an afternoon snack, this salad is as beautiful as it is delicious. The strawberries offer a juicy burst that complements the creamy mozzarella and fragrant herbs, making each bite a delightful balance of savory and sweet. With no cooking required and just a handful of ingredients, it comes together in minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Balsamic Strawberry Caprese

It’s the kind of dish that looks fancy but couldn’t be easier to make. You get all the elements of a traditional caprese, but with a fruit-forward freshness that makes it feel totally new. It’s perfect for when you want to impress without stressing in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a starter, side, or even a light main.

Can I Use Other Cheeses Instead of Mozzarella?

Fresh mozzarella is classic, but you can absolutely experiment with other soft cheeses. Burrata offers an extra creamy bite, while goat cheese adds a tangy twist. Just keep in mind the texture and flavor balance so it complements the strawberries and balsamic glaze without overpowering them.

Ingredients for the Balsamic Strawberry Caprese

To make this dish shine, it all starts with the freshest ingredients. Each component plays a unique role in building flavor and texture.

• Strawberries: Look for ripe, juicy strawberries with deep red color. Their natural sweetness brings balance to the savory elements.
• Fresh mozzarella: Choose the kind packed in water for the best creamy texture.
• Fresh basil leaves: Bright, peppery, and herbaceous, basil ties everything together.
• Balsamic glaze: This thick, sweet reduction adds depth and richness. You can use store-bought or make your own.
• Olive oil: A drizzle enhances flavor and adds a silky finish.
• Salt & black pepper: Essential for seasoning and highlighting each ingredient’s flavor.

How To Make the Balsamic Strawberry Caprese

Step 1: Slice and Prep

Wash the strawberries and remove their stems, then slice them vertically. Slice the mozzarella into rounds of similar thickness. Gently wash and pat dry the basil leaves.

Step 2: Arrange the Salad

On a serving platter, alternate layers of strawberries, mozzarella slices, and basil leaves in a circular or linear pattern. Let the colors overlap slightly for a visual appeal.

Step 3: Drizzle and Season

Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze generously over the layered ingredients. Finish with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

This salad is best enjoyed fresh. The flavors and textures are at their peak right after assembly.

How to Serve and Store Balsamic Strawberry Caprese

This recipe serves about 4 people as a side or appetizer, and it’s meant to be eaten fresh. If you’re prepping ahead, you can slice the strawberries and mozzarella in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble just before serving to keep everything vibrant and crisp. Avoid storing the finished salad for too long, as the strawberries can release moisture and soften the cheese.

What to Serve With Balsamic Strawberry Caprese?

Crusty Bread

Serve with toasted sourdough or a warm baguette to soak up the balsamic and juices.

Grilled Chicken

A simple grilled chicken breast turns this salad into a satisfying summer meal.

Sparkling Water or Rosé

The refreshing, fruity notes pair beautifully with light and bubbly beverages.

Prosciutto

Thin slices of salty prosciutto add a savory contrast that plays well with the sweet strawberries.

Pasta Salad

Pair it with a light pasta salad for a full picnic-style spread.

Arugula Salad

A peppery arugula salad complements the basil and balances the sweetness.

Charcuterie Board

Add this caprese as a fruity centerpiece among cured meats, nuts, and cheese.

Want More Salad Ideas With a Twist?

If you loved this Balsamic Strawberry Caprese, here are a few more fresh and creative salads to explore:

• Try the creamy comfort of Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad.
• Add bold flavors with Zesty Taco Pasta Salad.
• Go rustic with Creamy Corn Dip as a crowd-pleasing side.
• Keep it Southern with Cajun Potato Soup on cooler days.
• Discover the joy of Mediterranean White Beans & Greens for a wholesome dinner.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it when strawberries are in season. Whether you’re hosting a summer lunch or just want something light and flavorful, this salad deserves a spot in your rotation.

Tried it with a different cheese? Used white balsamic instead? Let me know in the comments what you did to make it your own. I love hearing how creative you get in the kitchen.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and simple meal ideas on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new seasonal favorites!

Conclusion

This Balsamic Strawberry Caprese is a joyful celebration of summer’s best flavors. With just a few ingredients and hardly any prep, it delivers a flavor combination that feels both elevated and effortless. Whether you’re feeding guests or treating yourself, it’s a dish that’s bound to become a favorite. Taste the sunshine and enjoy every bite!

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