If you’re searching for something that’s as stunning as it is refreshingly delicious, Balsamic Strawberry Caprese will sweep you right off your feet. Sweet juicy strawberries meet sun-ripened tomatoes and creamy mozzarella, layered with fresh basil and a tangy balsamic glaze—the result is a vibrant showstopper that sings of summer. Whether you’re impressing friends at a picnic, brightening up a weeknight dinner, or just craving something out of the ordinary, this salad has it all. The best part? It’s easy, elegant, and bursting with flavor in every bite.

Balsamic Strawberry Caprese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Balsamic Strawberry Caprese truly irresistible is how each ingredient shines. Simple, seasonal produce and a few staples come together effortlessly, each one playing a vital role in taste, texture, and color. Here’s what you need, plus a few tips to make every component count:

Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe, fragrant strawberries—sweetness is key to balancing the savory elements.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their tangy juiciness echoes the strawberries while bringing classic Caprese vibes; heirlooms work beautifully too.
Fresh Mozzarella: Soft, mild, and luxurious, it soaks up the glaze; try mozzarella balls or sliced rounds based on your preference.
Fresh Basil Leaves: Nothing beats the herbal freshness of torn basil; it adds aromatic lift and a pop of green.
Balsamic Glaze: Go for a high-quality, syrupy glaze—it ties everything together with tangy-sweet depth.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A drizzle of good EVOO enhances flavor and lends velvety richness.
Salt and Black Pepper: Just a pinch heightens all the other components—don’t skip this finishing touch.

How to Make Balsamic Strawberry Caprese

Step 1: Prep Your Star Ingredients

Start by hulling and slicing your fresh strawberries. Halve the cherry tomatoes, and if your mozzarella comes in large rounds, slice those too—or use small mozzarella balls for an adorable look. This quick prep keeps the textures distinct and lets each ingredient shine through in every forkful.

Step 2: Arrange Everything with Care

On a medium platter or in a shallow bowl, alternate the strawberries, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella. Don’t worry about making it picture-perfect—sometimes a little scatter and color contrast actually makes the platter look more vibrant and inviting! The goal is to show off all that gorgeous color.

Step 3: Basil Brilliance

Tear your basil leaves or slice them thinly, then sprinkle generously over the arranged salad. Basil brings aromatic magic to this Balsamic Strawberry Caprese, brightening up the sweet and creamy elements with every bite. Try to distribute it evenly so every forkful captures that garden-fresh flavor.

Step 4: The Dramatic Drizzle

Now for the showstopper moment: drizzle the balsamic glaze and extra virgin olive oil over your arranged salad. The glaze will pool into the cheese and fruit, delivering a hit of tangy sweetness, while the olive oil wraps everything in silky richness.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finish with a generous sprinkle of salt and cracked black pepper. This effortless step wakes up all the flavors, pulling the sweet, herbal, and creamy notes together into harmonious, irresistible bites. Serve your Balsamic Strawberry Caprese immediately and watch it disappear!

How to Serve Balsamic Strawberry Caprese

Garnishes

For a finishing flourish, try scattering a few extra small basil leaves, a grind of fresh black pepper, or even some lemon zest over the top. If you’re feeling indulgent, a pinch of flaky sea salt really amps up the flavors. A light drizzle of balsamic reduction along the rim of your platter creates a restaurant-worthy touch that guests will adore.

Side Dishes

This salad plays beautifully alongside a crusty baguette, grilled chicken, or even a light pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs. Pair your Balsamic Strawberry Caprese with chilled white wine, especially something crisp like a Pinot Grigio, and you have a meal that feels both satisfying and delightfully summery.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Balsamic Strawberry Caprese into cute appetizer skewers by threading the ingredients onto toothpicks for party-friendly nibbles. Alternatively, build it in mini mason jars for picnic portability, or pile it high on crostini for an elegant passed hors d’oeuvre. Your friends and family won’t stop talking about how innovative (and delicious) it is!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay vibrant for about a day, though the basil may wilt slightly. For best texture, enjoy as soon as possible and store undressed if you’re prepping ahead.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for this dish, as the strawberries and mozzarella lose their lovely texture and the tomatoes become watery when thawed. Balsamic Strawberry Caprese really shines fresh, and luckily, it takes just minutes to whip up another batch!

Reheating

This salad is meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you need to let it sit out for a bit, just make sure it’s covered and add a touch more basil and glaze before serving to refresh those bright flavors.

FAQs

Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Absolutely! Just chop your favorite juicy tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Heirlooms work particularly well and can add beautiful color variation to your Balsamic Strawberry Caprese.

Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

Yes! Swap out the mozzarella for your favorite vegan cheese alternative, or try marinated tofu cubes. The bold flavors of the strawberries, basil, and balsamic glaze still come through beautifully.

What’s the best way to make balsamic glaze at home?

To make your own glaze, simmer 1 cup of balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over low heat until it reduces by half and coats the back of a spoon. Let it cool before drizzling over your Balsamic Strawberry Caprese.

Can I prep this salad in advance for a party?

Absolutely! You can slice the strawberries, tomatoes, and mozzarella ahead and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble and dress just before serving so everything stays fresh and vibrant.

How do I keep the basil from turning brown?

Tear or slice basil just before serving and avoid exposing it to too much moisture. If prepping early, store basil loosely in a damp paper towel inside a sealed bag in the fridge, then add right before garnishing your Balsamic Strawberry Caprese.

Final Thoughts

It’s hard to beat the pure joy of sharing something as colorful, effortless, and flavorful as Balsamic Strawberry Caprese. Whether you’re jazzing up a weekday meal or wowing at your next gathering, this recipe will brighten the table and bring everyone back for more. Give it a try—you might just discover a new summer staple!

Balsamic Strawberry Caprese Recipe

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4.6 from 29 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

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Description

This Balsamic Strawberry Caprese is a delightful twist on the classic Caprese salad, featuring the sweetness of strawberries paired with creamy mozzarella and tangy balsamic glaze. It’s a perfect appetizer or side dish for any summer gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Fresh Strawberry Caprese:

1 cup fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
8 ounces fresh mozzarella (sliced or in small balls)
¼ cup fresh basil leaves (torn or thinly sliced)

Dressing:

2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Arrange Ingredients: In a medium serving bowl or platter, arrange the sliced strawberries, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella.
Add Basil: Sprinkle the fresh basil evenly over the top.
Drizzle Dressing: Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil.
Season and Serve: Season lightly with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately as a fresh appetizer or summer side dish.