Total Time: 15 minutesYield: 4 servings Diet: Vegetarian Recipe

If you’re ready for a flavor combination that’s as fresh and charming as a summer picnic, this salad is your next must-try! It’s a vibrant and unexpected take on the classic Caprese, but with juicy strawberries stealing the spotlight alongside creamy mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze. The best part? It comes together in a flash, making it ideal for entertaining or a quick weeknight treat. Total Time: 15 minutesYield: 4 servings Diet: Vegetarian.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is a shining example of how a handful of simple, quality ingredients can wow your senses. Each one brings a little magic, contributing to the salad’s sweet, creamy, and herbal notes, plus a burst of color you’ll want to dive right into.

• Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe strawberries for the juiciest, sweetest bite—they bring the perfect touch of natural sugar and color.
• Fresh Mozzarella: The creamy, mild mozzarella balances out the tartness from the glaze and complements juicy berries with its pillowy texture.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Basil adds an aromatic lift and that signature Caprese herbal note, tying the flavors together beautifully.
• Balsamic Glaze: Its tangy-sweet profile accentuates both the berries and cheese, adding depth and a bit of elegance to every bite.
• Salt and Pepper: Don’t skip these! A sprinkle sharpens all the flavors and keeps the salad lively and balanced.

How to Make Total Time: 15 minutesYield: 4 servings Diet: Vegetarian

Step 1: Combine Strawberries and Mozzarella

Start by slicing your strawberries and mozzarella into rounds or bite-sized pieces—a little rustic is perfect here! Gently toss them together in a large bowl. Watching the bright reds and creamy whites mingle is oddly satisfying, and you’ll already see how inviting this dish will be.

Step 2: Add Fresh Basil

Scatter the basil leaves right into the bowl. You can leave them whole for a bold look, or tear them for a softer texture. Basil’s fragrance blooms the moment it hits the other ingredients and instantly transforms the dish into something summery and special.

Step 3: Drizzle Balsamic Glaze

Take your time drizzling the balsamic glaze evenly across the salad. This glossy finish gives your dish that ‘gourmet’ touch. The glaze not only adds a tangy punch but also helps everything glisten—like a salad dressed for a party!

Step 4: Season with Salt and Pepper

Season generously with salt and freshly cracked pepper. This step really sharpens all the elements and balances the sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors into something super craveable.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Gently toss everything so each bite gets a bit of every ingredient. Serve right away for the freshest texture, or pop it in the fridge for up to 30 minutes if you want it chilled. And there you have it—Total Time: 15 minutesYield: 4 servings Diet: Vegetarian enjoyed with zero fuss!

How to Serve Total Time: 15 minutesYield: 4 servings Diet: Vegetarian

Garnishes

For an eye-catching finish, sprinkle over a handful of extra basil, a crack of black pepper, or even some fresh microgreens. A final zig-zag of balsamic glaze takes presentation up a notch and really makes those colors pop on the plate.

Side Dishes

This salad shines beside crusty bread or grissini, perfect for scooping up the mingled juices. For a bigger spread, pair it with grilled vegetables, a light pasta, or even a crisp white wine—Total Time: 15 minutesYield: 4 servings Diet: Vegetarian absolutely fits into any summer menu.

Creative Ways to Present

Layer the salad components on a long platter for a striking display, or serve them individually in cute jars or cups for a picnic or party. You can even skewer the ingredients for playful, easy-to-eat Caprese sticks with a twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them covered in the fridge for up to 2 hours. The strawberries may release some juices, but the flavors will still be lively and delicious.

Freezing

This salad isn’t a freezer candidate. Fresh mozzarella and strawberries just aren’t the same after thawing—save it for quick, fresh enjoyment to preserve every bit of that juicy, creamy, herby magic.

Reheating

No need to reheat! Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. If it’s been refrigerated, a few minutes on the counter will help meld the flavors together again.

FAQs

Can I use another kind of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Absolutely! Burrata, goat cheese, or even feta work beautifully if you want a slightly different texture or flavor. Just remember to keep it vegetarian for the same Total Time: 15 minutesYield: 4 servings Diet: Vegetarian experience.

Where do I find balsamic glaze—can I make it?

Balsamic glaze is often with the vinegar in most grocery stores, but you can easily make it at home too: simmer balsamic vinegar until it thickens and tastes slightly sweet. Just be sure to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t over-reduce!

How can I make this salad ahead of time for a party?

Prep the ingredients (slice strawberries, mozzarella, and basil) ahead of time, but don’t combine or dress the salad until just before serving. This keeps everything fresh and perfectly crisp. With a Total Time: 15 minutesYield: 4 servings Diet: Vegetarian, you’ll be ready to impress in no time!

Can I add other fruits or veggies?

Totally! Try sliced peaches, nectarines, or even cherry tomatoes for more color and flavor variation. A handful of arugula adds a nice peppery bite and makes the salad even more substantial.

Is this suitable for meal prep?

This salad is best fresh, but you can assemble the components and store them separately for a couple of days. Toss together and drizzle with glaze just before eating for the full effect. Total Time: 15 minutesYield: 4 servings Diet: Vegetarian makes it doable even on your busiest days.

Final Thoughts

Trust me—you’ll crave this cheerful salad all season long. It’s the kind of dish that makes ordinary evenings feel special and impresses every guest that tries it. Give Total Time: 15 minutesYield: 4 servings Diet: Vegetarian a place at your table, and let yourself fall for the flavors of summer in every bite!

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