Strawberry Caprese Salad

Name: Strawberry Caprese Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-486330H37M12S
Total time: 52 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb strawberries, quartered or thinly sliced; 8 oz small mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved; 4-5 basil leaves, rolled and sliced thin; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp balsamic glaze; Salt & pepper to taste; 2 cups arugula; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

May 29, 2025

Updated:

May 29, 2025

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Strawberry Caprese Salad is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, combining sweet strawberries with creamy mozzarella and aromatic basil. This refreshing salad is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a light appetizer. Its unique blend of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to elegant dinner parties.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of strawberries, mozzarella, and basil creates a vibrant taste that bursts with freshness.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a side dish, appetizer, or even atop grilled chicken for a complete meal.
Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients, this salad is low in calories yet high in flavor.
Stunning Presentation: The colorful ingredients make for an eye-catching dish that impresses guests.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make preparing your Strawberry Caprese Salad even easier. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Serving platter
Knife
Cutting board
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to toss the ingredients gently without making a mess.
Serving platter: Presenting your salad on a beautiful platter elevates its visual appeal when serving guests.

Ingredients

Strawberries, fresh mozzarella, basil and balsamic combine to create a refreshing salad.

For the Salad

1 lb. strawberries, quartered or sliced thin
8 oz small mozzarella balls (bocconcini), cut in half (approximately 1.5 cups)
4-5 basil leaves, rolled and sliced thin
2 tbsp flavorful (extra virgin) olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic glaze, purchased or homemade (see note below)
Salt & pepper, to taste
2 cups arugula

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Strawberry Caprese Salad

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the strawberries, mozzarella balls, and sliced basil.

Step 2: Dress the Salad

Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture. Lightly sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Arrange on Platter

Scatter the arugula on a large serving platter or plate. Distribute the strawberry salad mixture evenly over the arugula.

Step 4: Add Balsamic Glaze

Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving. Enjoy immediately or cover lightly and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before serving.

How to Serve Strawberry Caprese Salad

Strawberry Caprese Salad is a delightful dish that brings together sweet strawberries, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Here are some creative ways to serve this refreshing salad.

As a Starters

Serve it chilled as an appetizer before the main course to awaken your guests’ taste buds.

On a Bed of Greens

Place the salad over a bed of fresh arugula or mixed greens for added texture and flavor.

In Individual Cups

Create individual servings in small cups for parties. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy without any mess.

With Grilled Chicken

Pair the salad with grilled chicken for a light yet satisfying main course that complements the flavors beautifully.

As a Picnic Delight

Pack the salad in jars for a picnic. It’s easy to transport and tastes great even after some time at room temperature.

With Crusty Bread

Serve alongside slices of crusty bread or crostini, perfect for scooping up the delicious ingredients.

How to Perfect Strawberry Caprese Salad

Creating the perfect Strawberry Caprese Salad is simple if you follow these tips. Here are some ideas to enhance your dish.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for ripe strawberries and fresh mozzarella for the best flavor and texture.
Add Crunch: Consider adding nuts like pine nuts or walnuts for an extra layer of crunch.
Balance Flavors: Adjust the amount of balsamic glaze according to your taste preference; it should complement, not overpower.
Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge for 15 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Experiment with Cheese: Try using burrata instead of mozzarella for a creamier texture that takes the salad up a notch.
Garnish Thoughtfully: Finish with freshly cracked pepper or a sprinkle of sea salt just before serving for added depth.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Caprese Salad

Strawberry Caprese Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some options that will elevate your meal experience.

Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred seasonal vegetables bring smoky flavors that complement the freshness of the salad.
Quinoa Salad: A lemony quinoa salad adds protein and heartiness without overshadowing the main dish.
Pasta Primavera: A light pasta dish with seasonal veggies provides a comforting contrast to the refreshing salad.
Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread offers an aromatic touch that pairs nicely with strawberry flavors.
Fruit Platter: A colorful fruit platter can enhance your meal by adding variety and sweetness.
Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses can provide delightful contrasts in flavor and texture alongside your salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing a Strawberry Caprese Salad. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

Using stale ingredients: Always choose fresh strawberries and mozzarella. Stale ingredients can ruin the salad’s flavor and texture. Shop for ripe strawberries and high-quality mozzarella balls.
Not balancing flavors: A good Strawberry Caprese Salad requires a balance of sweet, salty, and tangy. Be sure to adjust the salt, pepper, and balsamic glaze according to your taste preferences for a harmonious dish.
Overdressing the salad: Drizzling too much olive oil or balsamic glaze can make the salad soggy. Start with small amounts, toss gently, and add more if needed to keep it fresh and vibrant.
Skipping the basil: Basil adds an essential flavor that complements both strawberries and mozzarella. Don’t skip this ingredient; use fresh basil leaves for the best taste.
Preparing too early: This salad is best served fresh. If you prepare it too far in advance, it may lose its texture. Aim to serve it within a few hours of preparation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container: Keep your Strawberry Caprese Salad in a sealed container to maintain freshness.
Consume within 24 hours: For optimal flavor and quality, eat leftover salad within one day.
Keep dressing separate: If possible, store balsamic glaze separately to avoid sogginess.

Freezing Strawberry Caprese Salad

Freezing is not recommended: The ingredients don’t freeze well together due to their textures.
Freshness is key: To enjoy the best flavor and texture, always opt for fresh ingredients rather than freezing leftovers.

Reheating Strawberry Caprese Salad

Oven: Not recommended for salads as they are best served cold.
Microwave: Avoid reheating in the microwave as it will alter the texture of fresh ingredients.
Stovetop: Not applicable; salads should be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making a Strawberry Caprese Salad.

Can I make Strawberry Caprese Salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the salad components ahead of time but assemble them just before serving for best results.

What can I substitute for mozzarella in my Strawberry Caprese Salad?

If you need a dairy-free option or want variety, try using avocado or vegan cheese alternatives that mimic mozzarella’s creaminess.

How can I customize my Strawberry Caprese Salad?

Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pine nuts for crunch or swap arugula with spinach for different flavors in your Strawberry Caprese Salad.

Is there a gluten-free version of this salad?

Absolutely! Since all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, you can enjoy this recipe without any adjustments needed.

Final Thoughts

The Strawberry Caprese Salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly versatile. Its balance of flavors makes it perfect for summer gatherings or as a light appetizer year-round. Customize it with additional toppings or dressings according to your preferences, and enjoy this delightful dish at any occasion!