Balsamic Strawberry Caprese

Looking for a refreshing, vibrant dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this Balsamic Strawberry Caprese. It’s like taking the classic Caprese salad and giving it a fresh, fruity twist that will make your taste buds sing! Think juicy, ripe strawberries paired with creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a tangy, rich balsamic glaze. It’s a medley of textures and flavors that’s light yet satisfying—and so simple to put together. Whether you’re hosting a summer dinner, preparing a light lunch, or looking for a beautiful appetizer to impress your guests, this dish is a game-changer. Trust me, you’re going to fall in love with this combo.

Why You’ll Love Balsamic Strawberry Caprese

This salad is all about celebrating fresh, bold flavors in a way that’s totally unexpected. And it’s not just tasty—it’s downright beautiful too. Here’s why it’s one of those dishes you’ll keep coming back to:

Fresh and Flavorful:

Sweet, ripe strawberries mixed with the creaminess of mozzarella—this combination is a match made in heaven. Add a handful of fragrant basil and drizzle it all with balsamic glaze, and you’ve got a bite that’s sweet, savory, tangy, and just downright delicious.

Quick and Easy:

This dish comes together in minutes—no cooking, no complicated steps. You’ll have it on the table in no time, and it’s guaranteed to impress anyone who tries it.

Perfect for Any Occasion:

From casual dinners to fancy gatherings, this salad fits right in. It’s light enough for a summer meal but elevated enough to serve at a dinner party. Whether it’s a BBQ, a picnic, or just a light snack, this dish is perfect for all occasions.

Vibrant and Colorful:

Not only does it taste amazing, but it looks stunning too. The red from the strawberries, the white mozzarella, the green basil, and the glossy balsamic glaze come together to create a dish that’s as pretty as it is delicious.

Healthy and Refreshing:

Packed with fresh produce, this salad is a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for warm weather, but still satisfying enough to keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this gorgeous Balsamic Strawberry Caprese:

Strawberries:

Ripe, juicy strawberries are the star of this dish. The natural sweetness balances out the savory ingredients and adds a refreshing touch.

Fresh Mozzarella:

The creamy texture of mozzarella complements the sweetness of the strawberries and adds that classic Caprese flavor. If you can find bocconcini or ciliegine (small balls of mozzarella), they’re perfect for this dish.

Fresh Basil:

Basil is a must for any Caprese-style salad. It adds that herby, aromatic touch that ties everything together.

Balsamic Glaze:

This is the finishing touch that elevates the entire dish. The balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and tang, drizzling over the ingredients like a delicious drizzle of magic.

Olive Oil (Optional):

A little drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can add richness to the dish and bring out the flavors of the basil and mozzarella.

Salt and Pepper (Optional):

Just a pinch of salt and a crack of fresh black pepper will enhance the flavors and bring everything together.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Making this Balsamic Strawberry Caprese is a breeze. Follow these steps and you’ll have a stunning dish ready in no time:

Prepare the Ingredients:

Start by washing and hulking your strawberries. Slice them into even rounds or wedges, depending on your preference. If you’re using larger strawberries, you can even cut them into smaller pieces to match the size of the mozzarella.

Slice the Mozzarella:

Slice your fresh mozzarella into thick rounds or bite-sized pieces. If you’re using bocconcini or ciliegine, you can simply halve them.

Assemble the Salad:

On a serving platter, layer the sliced strawberries and mozzarella. Arrange them in a circular pattern or a more relaxed, rustic way—whatever suits your style. Tuck in whole basil leaves between the slices of fruit and cheese, allowing the fragrance to infuse the dish.

Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze:

Once everything is arranged, drizzle a generous amount of balsamic glaze over the top. This is where the magic happens, so don’t be shy! If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can use regular balsamic vinegar, but the glaze is thicker and sweeter, which adds an extra depth of flavor.

Add Olive Oil (Optional):

For a touch of richness, drizzle a little olive oil over the top. This is totally optional, but it can give the dish a smooth, silky texture.

Season:

Finish with a light sprinkle of salt and a few cracks of fresh black pepper. This enhances all the flavors and makes them pop.

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve immediately as an appetizer, side dish, or light lunch. The fresh flavors are best enjoyed right away, but you can make it a few hours in advance and refrigerate it if needed.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s the nutritional breakdown for one serving of Balsamic Strawberry Caprese (based on approximately 6 servings):

Calories per serving: 180
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 18g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 7g
Vitamin D: 1mcg
Calcium: 200mg
Iron: 1mg
Potassium: 300mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

How to Serve Balsamic Strawberry Caprese

This Balsamic Strawberry Caprese is perfect for just about any occasion. Here are a few ideas for serving it:

As an Appetizer:

Serve this fresh, vibrant salad as a light appetizer before a main meal. It’s great for entertaining and will get your guests excited for what’s to come.

Light Lunch:

Pair this with a simple whole-grain baguette or some grilled chicken for a light, healthy lunch that’s still packed with flavor.

As a Side Dish:

This Caprese is the perfect side dish for grilled meats, seafood, or any summer BBQ. It adds a refreshing contrast to heartier dishes.

For Picnics or Potlucks:

Take this dish to your next picnic or potluck for a colorful, easy-to-make option that’s sure to stand out.

With a Glass of Wine:

Pair it with a crisp glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, for a truly refreshing experience.

Additional Tips

Here are a few extra tips to help you make the best Balsamic Strawberry Caprese:

Use Ripe, Fresh Strawberries:

The sweetness of the strawberries makes all the difference, so go for the ripest, juiciest berries you can find. This dish is all about freshness!

Balsamic Glaze vs. Vinegar:

While balsamic vinegar can work in a pinch, the glaze is thicker and sweeter, making it the ideal topping for this dish. If you only have balsamic vinegar, you can reduce it over low heat until it thickens into a syrupy consistency.

Make It Ahead:

You can prep all the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.

Add a Twist:

If you want to switch things up, try adding a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for added sweetness or crunch.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this with other fruits?

A1: Yes! While strawberries are the star, you can try this with other fruits like peaches, figs, or even watermelon for a delicious variation.

Q2: Can I use goat cheese instead of mozzarella?

A2: Definitely! Goat cheese will add a tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the strawberries. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a little twist.

Q3: How long can I store the leftovers?

A3: Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days, but the dish is best enjoyed fresh. The strawberries may release some juice after a while.

Q4: Can I use regular balsamic vinegar instead of balsamic glaze?

A4: Yes, but balsamic glaze is thicker and sweeter, so it’s perfect for drizzling over this salad. If using regular balsamic vinegar, reduce it to create a thicker glaze.

Q5: Can I add other herbs to this dish?

A5: Absolutely! Try adding some mint or oregano for a different herbal note that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.

Q6: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A6: You can prep the ingredients in advance, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the basil fresh and the balsamic glaze looking beautiful.

Q7: How can I make this dish vegan?

A7: To make it vegan, simply swap out the mozzarella for a plant-based cheese alternative, or omit it entirely for a dairy-free version.

Q8: Can I add protein to this dish?

A8: Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a few slices of prosciutto would make a lovely addition for extra protein.

Q9: How can I make this dish spicier?

A9: For a little heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the balsamic glaze, or sprinkle some chili powder over the salad.

Q10: What kind of balsamic glaze should I use?

A10: You can find high-quality balsamic glaze in most grocery stores, but if you want to make your own, simply reduce balsamic vinegar and sugar together until thick and syrupy.

Conclusion

There you have it—a fresh, flavorful, and beautifully simple dish that’s sure to impress every time. Whether it’s for a summer meal, a picnic, or just a snack, this Balsamic Strawberry Caprese will be the star of your table. Easy to make, stunning to look at, and absolutely delicious—what’s not to love?

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