Description
Sweet summer memories dance through this Balsamic Strawberry Caprese, blending classic Italian flavors with fresh seasonal charm. Juicy strawberries and creamy mozzarella create a delightful Mediterranean-inspired appetizer you’ll crave at every gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups (710 ml) strawberries (sliced)
- 1 cup (240 ml) mozzarella (sliced into halves)
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) basil (chopped)
Dressing Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons (45 ml) balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) honey
Seasoning:
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vinaigrette by vigorously whisking balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, and a pinch of salt until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly emulsified.
- Hull and slice fresh strawberries into thin, elegant wedges, ensuring uniform size for balanced presentation.
- Tear fresh basil leaves into delicate pieces, releasing their aromatic oils and maximizing flavor potential.
- Slice fresh mozzarella into bite-sized medallions, creating a creamy contrast to the bright strawberries.
- Assemble the salad by gently layering mozzarella, strawberry slices, and basil leaves in a decorative arrangement.
- Drizzle the prepared balsamic vinaigrette over the composed salad, allowing the dressing to cascade gracefully and enhance the ingredients’ natural flavors.
- Serve immediately at room temperature to preserve the ingredients’ optimal texture and taste, ensuring a vibrant and refreshing culinary experience.
Notes
- Boost flavor by using high-quality balsamic vinegar for a richer, more complex taste profile.
- Chill ingredients before assembling to maintain optimal texture and prevent mozzarella from becoming too soft.
- For a low-carb variation, replace traditional balsamic with a sugar-free balsamic reduction to reduce overall sugar content.
- Consider toasting pine nuts or adding fresh cracked black pepper for extra depth and crunch in the salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg