Balsamic Strawberry Caprese

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Balsamic Strawberry Caprese is the kind of summer salad that turns heads and wins hearts. It’s fresh, colorful, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Sweet strawberries, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil come together in a vibrant dish, then finished with a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze. It sounds fancy, but it’s actually effortless to throw together.

Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply want to elevate your lunch game, this salad feels like sunshine on a plate. It celebrates peak-season strawberries in the most elegant way while still being comfortingly familiar thanks to the Caprese base. Add crusty bread or grilled chicken, and you’ve got a balanced meal that hits all the right notes.

Why You’ll Love This Balsamic Strawberry Caprese

This is not your average Caprese. The juicy strawberries introduce a natural sweetness that pairs so well with the tang of balsamic and the rich creaminess of mozzarella. Basil lifts the whole thing with its herby brightness, making every forkful dynamic and refreshing.

It’s a no-cook dish that comes together in 10 minutes flat. You can prep it ahead or assemble it last minute, and it’s just as perfect for a backyard barbecue as it is for a quiet evening on the porch with wine. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and vegetarian.

What Kind of Mozzarella Should I Use?

For the best results, use fresh mozzarella that comes in water or brine. The soft, creamy texture plays beautifully with the strawberries. Bocconcini or mozzarella pearls work well for bite-sized versions, while sliced mozzarella can create a layered look on a platter.

Avoid the low-moisture, pre-shredded kind. It just doesn’t have the same tenderness or fresh flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, a touch of burrata also makes this salad ultra luxurious.

Ingredients for the Balsamic Strawberry Caprese

To make this fresh and flavorful salad, you only need a handful of ingredients that shine together beautifully.

Fresh strawberries bring the perfect sweet and juicy contrast to the savory elements.

Fresh mozzarella offers creamy richness and mild flavor that balances the acidity of the balsamic.

Fresh basil leaves give the dish its aromatic depth and summery essence.

Balsamic glaze adds a sweet-tangy finish that ties everything together.

Olive oil for a little silky texture and richness.

Salt and freshly cracked pepper to season and balance all the flavors.

How To Make the Balsamic Strawberry Caprese

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Wash and hull your strawberries, then slice them in halves or quarters depending on size. Drain the mozzarella if packed in water and slice or tear into bite-sized pieces. Gently pat dry to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Layer the Salad

On a serving platter or bowl, start layering the mozzarella, strawberries, and basil leaves in an alternating pattern. For a rustic look, you can also toss them together in a bowl.

Step 3: Drizzle and Season

Drizzle olive oil over the top, followed by balsamic glaze. Sprinkle with flaky salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. You can also add a touch more basil for garnish.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

This salad is best served fresh to enjoy the full texture and brightness of each ingredient.

How to Serve and Store This Caprese Salad

Balsamic Strawberry Caprese is best served immediately after assembling. The fresh ingredients shine brightest when they haven’t sat too long, especially the basil and strawberries. You can prepare the ingredients in advance and assemble just before serving.

This recipe feeds about 4 as a side dish or 2 as a light main. If you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Just note that the strawberries may release juice and soften, and the basil can wilt.

What to Serve With Balsamic Strawberry Caprese?

Crusty Artisan Bread

Perfect for soaking up the juices and glaze, a warm loaf of crusty bread makes this feel like a meal.

Grilled Chicken Breast

Add a lean protein to turn this fresh salad into a balanced dinner that still feels light.

Chilled Rosé Wine

A crisp, dry rosé pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries and balsamic.

Prosciutto Wraps

The salty, savory touch of prosciutto complements the fruitiness of this salad for a more elevated appetizer spread.

Quinoa or Couscous Salad

A grain-based side adds heartiness without overwhelming the fresh flavor of the Caprese.

Lemon Herb Pasta

A simple pasta with olive oil, lemon, and herbs keeps with the summer theme and offers a filling side.

Charcuterie Board

Round out your gathering with cheeses, nuts, olives, and this strawberry Caprese for a picnic-perfect platter.

Want More Salad Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this refreshing Caprese, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Easy Summer Peach Watermelon Salad Recipe for another fruit-forward side.
• Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad Recipe if you want crunch and color.
• Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries for something tangy and savory.
• Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta Salad when you’re craving pasta with a zing.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add avocado or a dash of chili flakes? Did you serve it over arugula?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other make meals that feel like summer.

Explore beautifully curated fruit-forward recipes on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next fresh favorite!

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