There's something magical about the way sweet strawberries mingle with creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil. When you drizzle it all with tangy balsamic glaze, you're left with a summer salad that's as stunning as it is delicious.

I first fell in love with this Balsamic Strawberry Caprese while hosting a backyard brunch. I needed something fresh and elegant that came together quickly. Since then, it's become my go-to for warm-weather gatherings and solo lunches alike.

It's the kind of dish that makes you stop and savor every bite.

Why You'll Love This Balsamic Strawberry Caprese

Get ready to upgrade your salad game. This Balsamic Strawberry Caprese is everything you love about a traditional caprese, but with a fruity twist that keeps everyone coming back for more.

First off, it takes just minutes to prepare. With only a handful of ingredients and no cooking involved, it's perfect for those sweltering summer days when turning on the stove is out of the question.

It's incredibly beautiful on the plate. The vibrant reds, greens, and creamy whites make it look like you spent far more time on it than you actually did. It's a total showstopper at any gathering.

Strawberries add a delightful sweetness that pairs surprisingly well with the savory mozzarella and basil. The balsamic glaze ties everything together with a tangy punch that keeps your taste buds dancing.

And it's wonderfully versatile. Serve it as a side dish, appetizer, or even a light main course. Add some grilled chicken or crusty bread and you've got a complete meal.

Whether you're entertaining or just treating yourself, this dish delivers.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this salad lies in the quality of its ingredients. With so few components, each one really gets a chance to shine.

Fresh strawberries are the star here. Choose ripe, juicy berries with a deep red hue and minimal bruising. Slice them just before serving for the freshest taste and best texture.

Mozzarella brings a creamy, mild contrast to the sweet berries. I prefer using fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or bocconcini), sliced in half. Their soft, milky texture is ideal. If you're using a large ball, slice it into bite-sized rounds.

Fresh basil adds a bright, herbal layer that ties the whole dish together. Tear the leaves gently by hand to avoid bruising and preserve their flavor. Don’t skip this ingredient – it’s what makes a caprese truly a caprese!

Balsamic glaze gives this salad its signature punch. You can buy it ready-made at most grocery stores, or reduce your own balsamic vinegar by simmering it until thickened. Either way, drizzle generously.

Olive oil and salt are your finishing touches. A good quality extra virgin olive oil will add richness, while a pinch of flaky sea salt enhances every bite. No fancy tools are required, just a sharp knife and a pretty platter.

How To Make This Balsamic Strawberry Caprese

Creating this fresh and elegant salad couldn’t be easier. Here's how to make it step-by-step.

Start by rinsing your strawberries under cool water and patting them dry. Hull them and slice into thin rounds or halves, depending on size. You're looking for pieces that are easy to eat and evenly sized.

Next, slice your mozzarella if needed. If using mozzarella balls, simply halve them. For larger pieces, aim for rounds about ¼ inch thick. Keep the sizes somewhat consistent with the strawberries for a balanced bite.

Layer your ingredients on a platter or shallow serving dish. I like to alternate slices of strawberry and mozzarella, tucking fresh basil leaves in between. This not only looks gorgeous but ensures you get a bit of everything in each forkful.

Drizzle the salad generously with balsamic glaze. You can make artistic zigzags or go rustic with a few bold lines. Then, finish with a light drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of flaky sea salt.

Serve immediately, while everything is fresh and the basil is still perky. This salad comes together in under 15 minutes, making it a quick yet elegant option for any occasion.

Storage Options

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day. The strawberries will soften and release juices, slightly altering the texture.

If you need to prep ahead, you can slice the strawberries and mozzarella a few hours early and store them separately. Assemble just before serving to maintain that beautiful presentation and optimal freshness.

Avoid freezing this dish – the texture of the fruit and cheese won’t hold up well after thawing. Stick to fresh or make a smaller portion if you’re not feeding a crowd.

To re-serve leftovers, gently toss to redistribute the balsamic glaze and juices. Add a few fresh basil leaves if needed to revive the herbaceous pop.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is. A few simple swaps can tailor it to your taste or what you have on hand.

Swap the strawberries for other berries like raspberries or sliced cherries for a similar sweet contrast. Each brings its own unique twist to the flavor profile.

For a different take on the cheese, try burrata or even a creamy goat cheese. Burrata adds extra richness, while goat cheese brings a tangy flair.

Don’t have balsamic glaze? Reduce regular balsamic vinegar on the stovetop with a bit of honey until syrupy. It’s a great DIY version that tastes just as good.

You can also turn this into a more filling main course by adding grilled chicken, prosciutto, or a scoop of cooked quinoa. It transforms easily from a side salad into a satisfying meal.