Description: A vibrant and refreshing twist on the classic Caprese, this salad combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch, a stunning appetizer, or a delightful side dish for any summer gathering. This salad is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, showcasing the simple beauty of fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Ingredients:
(Serves 4)
- 3 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup mozzarella balls or cubes (bocconcini or fresh mozzarella), ideally packed in water for optimal freshness. Drain well before using. If using larger mozzarella balls, cut them into bite-sized pieces similar in size to the strawberry halves.
- ⅓ cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped or left whole depending on preference. Smaller leaves can be left whole, while larger leaves benefit from a quick chop to release their aromatic oils.
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar, preferably high-quality balsamic vinegar with a rich, syrupy consistency. The better the balsamic, the more complex and delicious the vinaigrette will be.
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, choose a fruity and flavorful extra-virgin olive oil to complement the sweetness of the strawberries and the tang of the balsamic vinegar.
- 1 tsp honey, local honey is recommended for its unique floral notes, but any good quality honey will work. Adjust the amount to your preference, depending on the sweetness of your strawberries.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste. Sea salt or kosher salt is recommended for its clean, bright flavor. Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle heat and complexity.
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Gently rinse the strawberries under cool water, removing any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean paper towel to prevent the vinaigrette from becoming watery. Hull the strawberries by carefully removing the green tops using a paring knife or a strawberry huller. Halve the strawberries. If the strawberries are particularly large, quarter them so they are easier to eat. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Mozzarella
If using bocconcini (small mozzarella balls), drain them well from their packaging liquid. Gently pat them dry with a paper towel. If using a larger block of fresh mozzarella, slice it into bite-sized cubes, roughly the same size as the halved strawberries. The key is to ensure that the cheese and fruit have a similar mouthfeel.
Step 3: Prepare the Basil
Rinse the fresh basil leaves under cool water and pat them dry. Remove any discolored or damaged leaves. Depending on your preference, you can roughly chop the basil leaves or leave them whole. Chopping the basil will release more of its fragrance, while leaving them whole provides a more visual appeal.
Step 4: Prepare the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, honey, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are fully combined and the vinaigrette is emulsified, meaning it has a slightly thickened and creamy consistency. Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a touch more honey if you prefer a sweeter dressing, or a pinch more salt if you prefer a more savory flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl or on a serving platter, gently combine the halved strawberries, mozzarella balls or cubes, and fresh basil leaves. Be careful not to overcrowd the bowl or platter, as this can make it difficult to toss the salad evenly. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly, taking care not to crush the strawberries or mozzarella. Serve immediately or chill briefly in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Balsamic Strawberry Caprese Salad is a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. The sweetness of the strawberries perfectly complements the creamy, mildness of the mozzarella, while the fragrant basil adds a touch of herbaceousness. The balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together with its tangy sweetness and rich depth. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal cooking and preparation time. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort. This salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing. The vibrant colors of the red strawberries, white mozzarella, and green basil create a stunning presentation that is sure to impress your guests. It’s a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for warm weather.
COOKING Rating
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a light lunch or appetizer.
- Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside crusty bread for dipping in the balsamic vinaigrette.
- Garnish with a balsamic glaze for added richness and sweetness.
- Add a handful of arugula or spinach for extra greens and a peppery flavor.
- Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or chopped pistachios for added crunch and texture.
- Serve chilled for a refreshing treat on a hot day.
Tips:
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh, ripe strawberries, creamy mozzarella, and good balsamic vinegar are essential.
- Adjust the sweetness of the vinaigrette to your liking by adding more or less honey.
- Don’t overdress the salad, as this can make it soggy. Add just enough vinaigrette to coat the ingredients lightly.
- Serve the salad immediately or shortly after assembling to prevent the strawberries from becoming mushy.
- For a more intense basil flavor, lightly bruise the basil leaves before adding them to the salad.
- If you don’t have fresh basil, you can substitute with dried basil, but use only a small amount as the flavor is more concentrated.
- To prevent the mozzarella from sticking together, toss it with a little olive oil before adding it to the salad.
- Experiment with different types of mozzarella, such as burrata or smoked mozzarella, for a unique flavor twist.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette for a hint of spice.
- For a vegan version, substitute the mozzarella with vegan mozzarella or firm tofu.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
0 minutes
Total Time:
15 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
The Balsamic Strawberry Caprese Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s a reminder that the best things in life are often the simplest, and that a few high-quality ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing lunch, a stunning appetizer, or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this salad is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the simplicity, and enjoy the deliciousness of summer on a plate.
Questions and Answers about this Recipe
- Question 1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
- Answer: While it’s best to serve this salad immediately after assembling to prevent the strawberries from becoming too soft, you can prepare the vinaigrette and chop the ingredients (strawberries, mozzarella, and basil) ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, combine the ingredients and drizzle with the vinaigrette. This will help to maintain the freshness and texture of the salad.
- Question 2: I don’t have balsamic vinegar. Can I use another type of vinegar?
- Answer: While balsamic vinegar is essential to achieve the salad’s characteristic flavor, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar in a pinch. However, keep in mind that these vinegars have a different flavor profile and will alter the overall taste of the salad. If using red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, you might want to add a bit more honey to balance the acidity.
- Question 3: Can I add other fruits to this salad?
- Answer: Absolutely! This salad is very versatile and can be easily customized to your liking. Consider adding other summer fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a more complex flavor and color. You can also add slices of peaches or nectarines for a juicy and sweet addition.
- Question 4: I’m allergic to nuts. What can I use instead of pine nuts or pistachios?
- Answer: If you have a nut allergy, you can easily omit the pine nuts or pistachios. Alternatively, you can substitute them with other crunchy toppings such as toasted sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or crispy fried shallots for added texture.
- Question 5: How can I make this salad a more substantial meal?
- Answer: To make this salad a more filling meal, you can add protein and whole grains. Grilled chicken or shrimp would be excellent additions, providing a boost of protein and flavor. You can also add cooked quinoa or farro to the salad for added fiber and nutrients, transforming it into a hearty and satisfying lunch or dinner. Adding some chickpeas or cannellini beans can also provide a vegetarian option.
