Balsamic Strawberry Caprese Recipe

There's something magical about the first bite of a Balsamic Strawberry Caprese salad—the way the juicy berries burst with sweetness against the creamy mozzarella, the fragrant basil, and the tangy balsamic drizzle. It’s summer on a plate, refreshing and elegant all at once.

this Recipe

I first made this twist on the classic Caprese during a backyard barbecue when I wanted to surprise guests with something familiar yet unexpected. It was an instant hit. Since then, it’s been my go-to for brunches, potlucks, and even as a light lunch with crusty bread on the side.

This recipe is quick, easy, and utterly stunning. It comes together in minutes and looks like something straight out of a gourmet kitchen. Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Balsamic Strawberry Caprese

Get ready to fall head over heels for a salad that’s anything but ordinary. This Balsamic Strawberry Caprese checks all the boxes when it comes to flavor, speed, and presentation.

First, let’s talk about simplicity. With only a handful of ingredients and no cooking required, this recipe is ready in just 10 minutes. Perfect for those hot days when turning on the oven sounds like a nightmare.

It’s also a budget-friendly showstopper. Strawberries and basil are in peak season during summer, making this dish both affordable and bursting with flavor. And since it doesn't require specialty cheese or hard-to-find ingredients, you can whip it up with ease.

Another reason to love it? It's wildly versatile. Serve it as a side salad, an appetizer, or even a light dinner. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, crusty bread, or even a glass of chilled rosé.

And if you’re into meal prepping, this salad keeps surprisingly well. Just store the strawberries, mozzarella, and basil separately and assemble right before serving for the best texture.

Now that you're drooling, let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish shine.

Ingredient Notes

The beauty of this Balsamic Strawberry Caprese lies in its handful of high-quality ingredients. With fresh produce and good mozzarella, this salad sings with flavor.

Strawberries are the star of the show. Look for ripe, red berries that are fragrant and slightly soft to the touch. Slice them just before serving to keep them juicy and fresh. Their natural sweetness is a perfect contrast to the savory cheese and herby basil.

Fresh mozzarella brings the creamy, mild richness that balances the sweetness of the fruit. You can use small mozzarella balls (bocconcini) for convenience, or slice a large ball into bite-sized rounds. Either way, opt for fresh, water-packed mozzarella for the best texture.

Basil adds that familiar Caprese freshness. Tear or chiffonade the leaves just before assembling to preserve their aromatic oils. The herbal brightness cuts through the richness of the cheese and rounds out each bite.

Balsamic glaze ties everything together with a sweet-tart punch. You can buy it premade in most grocery stores or make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until reduced by half. A little drizzle goes a long way in enhancing the strawberries and mozzarella.

You’ll also need extra-virgin olive oil, flaky sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. These pantry staples elevate the flavors and add a savory finish.

No special equipment is necessary, but a sharp knife and a beautiful platter help make the presentation pop.

How To Make This Balsamic Strawberry Caprese

Creating this vibrant salad couldn't be easier. Here’s how to build it for maximum impact and flavor.

Start by washing and hulling your strawberries, then slicing them into even rounds or halves. Pat them dry with a paper towel to keep the salad from getting watery. If you're using bocconcini, drain and pat them dry as well.

Arrange your mozzarella and strawberries on a platter in a single layer, alternating for a checkerboard look or grouping for a more rustic, tossed effect. Either method works—go with your style!

Next, scatter freshly torn basil leaves across the top. Don’t be shy—basil not only adds color but brings a beautiful aroma that makes this dish unforgettable.

Now comes the magic: Drizzle balsamic glaze in slow zigzags over the top of the salad. Follow with a generous swirl of olive oil, a sprinkle of flaky salt, and several twists of black pepper. The salt especially enhances the sweetness of the berries and sharpness of the glaze.

Serve immediately or let sit for 10 minutes at room temperature to let the flavors meld together. Total prep time? Just 10 minutes—start to finish!

Storage Options

While best enjoyed fresh, this salad can be partially prepped ahead for convenience.

If you need to store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. The salad will keep for up to 2 days, though the basil may wilt and the strawberries may soften.

To prep ahead, slice your strawberries and mozzarella and store them separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Add the basil, glaze, and seasonings right before serving to preserve their freshness.

Avoid freezing this dish, as strawberries and mozzarella do not thaw well and will lose their texture.

When it’s time to enjoy, let the salad sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before serving. This enhances the flavor and brings out the natural sweetness of the ingredients.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Balsamic Strawberry Caprese is how easily you can adapt it to fit your taste—or your fridge contents!

For a stone fruit twist, try swapping the strawberries with sliced peaches or nectarines. They add a similar sweetness and pair beautifully with mozzarella and basil.

Want a bit more bite? Add a few thin slices of red onion or a sprinkle of crumbled goat cheese for tang and depth. Goat cheese especially complements the sweet-savory vibe of this dish.

No basil? Try mint or arugula. Mint gives a cool, refreshing note, while arugula adds a peppery edge that balances the sweet fruit.

If you don’t have balsamic glaze, reduce regular balsamic vinegar on the stovetop or mix it with a touch of honey for an easy shortcut.

Feeling fancy? Add toasted pine nuts or pistachios for crunch. This turns the salad into more of a composed appetizer that feels restaurant-worthy.

The beauty of this dish is its flexibility. Don’t be afraid to experiment—you might just discover your new favorite version!

Print