Fresh Twist on Classic Caprese

This hearty Balsamic Strawberry Caprese salad transforms the traditional Italian favorite into a refreshing summer delight with the sweet addition of ripe strawberries. The combination of creamy mozzarella, juicy strawberries, fragrant basil, and tangy balsamic creates a perfect balance that celebrates the best seasonal flavors.

I first created this strawberry twist on caprese during a summer garden party when my tomatoes weren't quite ripe yet. The strawberries were an improvisation that ended up becoming our family's most requested summer appetizer for years to come.

Ingredients

• Fresh strawberries Look for bright red berries that are fragrant and firm but not hard. Local berries in season will provide the sweetest flavor.
• Fresh mozzarella Choose high quality fresh mozzarella packed in water for the creamiest texture. Buffalo mozzarella offers the richest flavor but regular fresh mozzarella works beautifully too.
• Fresh basil Bright green leaves with no brown spots indicate freshness. The aromatic oils in basil are crucial to this dish so avoid substituting dried basil.
• Balsamic reduction A thick syrupy consistency is key. You can purchase premade or simmer regular balsamic vinegar until reduced by half for a more intense flavor.
• Extra virgin olive oil Use your best quality olive oil as the flavor will shine in this simple dish. Look for cold pressed varieties with a fruity profile.
• Sea salt Flaky finishing salt adds both texture and enhances all the flavors in the dish. A little goes a long way.
• Freshly ground black pepper Adds a subtle warmth that balances the sweetness of the berries and balsamic.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the strawberries

Gently wash strawberries under cold running water and pat completely dry with paper towels. Any excess moisture will dilute the flavors. Remove the stems and slice berries into 1/4inch thick slices. Keep the slices relatively uniform for the prettiest presentation.

Slice the mozzarella

Remove fresh mozzarella from its liquid and pat dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, slice the cheese into 1/4inch rounds that roughly match the size of your strawberry slices. The contrast between the white cheese and red berries creates a beautiful visual.

Prepare the basil

Gently rinse basil leaves and pat completely dry. For the freshest flavor and presentation, tear larger leaves by hand rather than cutting them which can cause browning at the edges. The aroma released when tearing fresh basil adds another sensory dimension to the dish.

Assemble the salad

On a serving platter, alternate slices of strawberry and mozzarella in an overlapping pattern. This creates visual appeal and ensures every bite includes both main ingredients. Scatter the fresh basil leaves throughout the arrangement for pops of green color.

Finish and serve

Drizzle the entire arrangement with balsamic reduction in a zigzag pattern for visual appeal. Follow with a light drizzle of high quality olive oil. Sprinkle with a small amount of sea salt and freshly ground pepper. Serve immediately for the freshest taste and texture.

Bookmark

The first time I served this at a dinner party, my friend who claimed to hate fruit in savory dishes asked for the recipe before dessert was served. There's something magical about how the acidity of the balsamic vinegar bridges the gap between sweet strawberries and creamy mozzarella that converts even the most skeptical eaters.

Make Ahead Tips

While this salad is best assembled just before serving, you can prepare all components separately ahead of time. Slice the strawberries and mozzarella up to 4 hours in advance and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Wash and dry the basil leaves but only tear them right before assembly to prevent browning. The balsamic reduction can be made several days in advance and stored at room temperature.

Creative Variations

This flexible recipe welcomes several delicious adaptations. For an even more substantial dish, add sliced avocado for creamy richness. In late summer, mix ripe peach slices with the strawberries for complex sweetness. For a spicy kick, sprinkle a tiny amount of red pepper flakes over the finished dish. You can also turn this into a main course by serving it over a bed of arugula and adding grilled chicken on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Balsamic Strawberry Caprese makes a stunning starter for an Italian themed dinner party. Serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. For a complete summer meal, pair it with grilled fish or chicken and a glass of chilled rosé wine. This dish also works beautifully as part of a brunch spread with mimosas and frittata.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make the balsamic reduction ahead of time?

Absolutely! The balsamic reduction can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply warm it slightly before using to achieve the perfect drizzling consistency.

→ What's the best mozzarella to use for this dish?

Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or a log of fresh mozzarella work best. For an indulgent variation, try burrata which has a creamy center that pairs beautifully with the sweet strawberries.

→ How far in advance can I assemble this dish?

This salad is best assembled just before serving. However, you can prepare all components up to 4 hours ahead and store separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and add the balsamic drizzle right before serving to maintain optimal texture and freshness.

→ What can I serve with Balsamic Strawberry Caprese?

This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also makes an elegant appetizer alongside crusty bread or crostini. For a summer gathering, serve it as part of a buffet with other Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

→ Are there any suitable substitutes for basil?

While basil is traditional, you can experiment with mint for an equally refreshing flavor that complements strawberries beautifully. For a more complex profile, try a combination of basil and mint, or even a light sprinkle of thyme.

→ How do I know when my balsamic reduction is ready?

A properly reduced balsamic should coat the back of a spoon and have a syrupy consistency. Start checking after about 10-15 minutes of simmering. Remember it will thicken further as it cools, so don't reduce it too much.