Balsamic Strawberry Caprese Salad (Print)

Sweet strawberries paired with fresh mozzarella and aromatic basil, drizzled with tangy balsamic reduction for a refreshing summer dish.

# Ingredients:

→ Fresh Ingredients

01 - Ripe strawberries, bright red and slightly firm
02 - Fresh mozzarella cheese, in balls or logs
03 - Fresh basil leaves
04 - Balsamic reduction or glaze

→ Optional Ingredients

05 - High-quality extra virgin olive oil
06 - Freshly cracked black pepper
07 - Sea salt

# Directions:

01 - Rinse strawberries under cold water, then gently pat them dry with a paper towel. Slice them into thin rounds approximately ¼ inch thick.
02 - Drain fresh mozzarella and pat dry to remove excess moisture. Slice into rounds similar in thickness to the strawberries.
03 - On a serving platter, alternate layers of sliced strawberries and mozzarella in a circular pattern or rows. Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter them throughout.
04 - Drizzle balsamic reduction over the arranged salad. If using, add a light drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately for best flavor and presentation.

# Notes:

01 - For an extra creamy variation, substitute burrata cheese for the mozzarella
02 - Making your own balsamic reduction is simple - just simmer balsamic vinegar until it thickens to a syrupy consistency
03 - Tearing basil leaves rather than cutting helps release their aromatic oils