Balsamic Strawberry Caprese

If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant twist on a classic Italian favorite, this Balsamic Strawberry Caprese is a must-make. Juicy strawberries replace traditional tomatoes in this summer-ready version, balanced with creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a rich balsamic glaze. It’s sweet, savory, and refreshingly light—perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a healthy snack.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fresh & Fruity – Strawberries bring a juicy burst of natural sweetness.
Elegant & Simple – Looks gourmet, but only takes 10 minutes to prepare.
Perfect for Summer – Ideal for picnics, BBQs, or light lunches.
No Cooking Needed – A no-heat recipe you can assemble in minutes.
Healthy & Wholesome – Made with fresh, real ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad:
• 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella (small balls or sliced from a block)
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, whole or thinly sliced
• Salt to taste
• Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

For the Balsamic Glaze:
• ½ cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)

Optional Garnish:
• Arugula or baby spinach (for a leafy base)
• Crushed pistachios or almonds (for crunch)
• A drizzle of olive oil

Tools You’ll Need
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Small saucepan
• Serving platter or salad bowl
• Spoon for drizzling glaze

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Balsamic Glaze

1. In a small saucepan, pour in ½ cup balsamic vinegar and add honey or brown sugar if using.
2. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer.
3. Let it simmer for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reduces by about half and becomes syrupy.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool. It will thicken slightly more as it cools.

Step 2: Slice the Ingredients

1. Wash and hull the strawberries, then slice them vertically into halves or quarters depending on size.
2. Slice the fresh mozzarella into rounds or use mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine) cut in half.
3. Wash and gently pat dry the basil leaves. Leave them whole or chiffonade for a delicate look.

Step 3: Assemble the Caprese Salad

1. On a large serving platter or shallow bowl, layer the strawberries and mozzarella in an alternating pattern.
2. Tuck in basil leaves between layers or sprinkle them over the top.
3. Lightly season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the flavors.

Step 4: Drizzle the Balsamic Glaze

1. Once the glaze has cooled slightly, drizzle it generously over the salad.
2. Add a light drizzle of olive oil if desired for added richness.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

1. Optionally, scatter a handful of arugula around the base for a more salad-like dish.
2. Add crushed pistachios or almonds for extra crunch if serving as a starter.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Strawberry Caprese
Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries – The better the fruit, the better the flavor.
Don’t Skip the Basil – Its peppery aroma is what ties the whole dish together.
Chill Ingredients Before Assembling – A cool salad is more refreshing on hot days.
Make the Glaze Ahead – You can store it in the fridge for up to a week.
Balance Sweetness – Taste your strawberries; adjust honey in glaze based on their sweetness.

Serving Suggestions
• Serve as a light appetizer before a pasta or grilled main course.
• Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced summer dinner.
• Include it in a brunch spread with focaccia, prosciutto (or beef slices), and melon.
• Turn it into a sandwich filling with toasted ciabatta and a spread of ricotta.

How to Store & Reuse Leftovers

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Basil may wilt, so add fresh leaves before serving again.
Do Not Freeze: Strawberries and mozzarella lose texture when frozen and thawed.

Reusing:
• Toss leftovers with baby spinach and a little olive oil for a quick salad.
• Add it to a grilled flatbread or wrap for a unique lunch.
• Spoon over toasted baguette slices for a sweet-savory bruschetta.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best texture and freshness, assemble no more than 1 hour ahead. Keep refrigerated and add the glaze just before serving.

2. What can I use instead of fresh mozzarella?
Burrata, feta, or goat cheese make great alternatives for a creamier or tangier flavor.

3. Is the glaze necessary?
It brings the whole dish together! If you’re in a pinch, use store-bought balsamic glaze or a simple mix of balsamic vinegar and olive oil.

4. Can I use other berries?
Yes! Raspberries or blackberries can add a nice contrast, but strawberries work best due to their size and sweetness.

Final Thoughts
This Balsamic Strawberry Caprese is a stunning, fresh take on a beloved classic. Whether you’re entertaining guests, prepping a picnic, or just enjoying a solo snack on a sunny day, it’s guaranteed to impress. Sweet strawberries, creamy mozzarella, and the punch of balsamic make this a dish you’ll crave all summer long.

Try it today and see just how easy and flavorful this unique Caprese can be. Don’t forget to share your creation with us and leave a comment or review!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (for glaze)
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 210 | Protein: 10g | Carbohydrates: 15g | Fat: 13g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 200mg

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