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The Caprese salad, a cherished Italian dish, has long been celebrated for its simple yet robust blend of flavors. Originating from the sun-kissed island of Capri, this iconic salad typically boasts a mix of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, adorned with a drizzle of olive oil. A symbol of the Italian flag, Caprese salad has become a culinary emblem of Italy, embodying the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Our version of this beloved salad, the Sweet & Savory Strawberry Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze, takes a delightful detour from tradition. We’ve swapped the tomatoes for succulent Strawberries and replaced the olive oil with a sweet balsamic glaze, transforming the classic Caprese into a refreshing, sweet, and tangy summer dish. This unique twist adds a burst of berry sweetness that complements the creamy mozzarella and aromatic basil beautifully, making it a novel yet delicious take on the traditional Caprese salad.

Every bite of this stunning salad is a symphony of flavors. The sweet strawberries, the creamy mozzarella, the fragrant basil, and the tangy balsamic glaze all come together to create a harmonious and unforgettable taste. It’s a light and refreshing salad that makes a great start to any meal, a delightful side dish, or even a standalone light lunch on a warm summer day. Pair it with a chilled glass of sparkling Prosecco to heighten your dining experience. Delight in the vibrant colors and flavors of this Sweet & Savory Strawberry Caprese Salad and bring the taste of Italian summer to your table.

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups Fresh strawberries (hulled and halved)
• 1 cup Fresh mozzarella cheese (cut into bite-size pieces)
• 1/2 cup Fresh basil leaves (lightly torn)

Seasonings and Spices

• 1/4 cup Balsamic glaze (can be store-bought or homemade)
• to taste Salt
• to taste Ground black pepper

Optional Toppings

• for garnish Extra basil leaves
• 1 glass Prosecco (for pairing)

Preparation

1. Start by preparing your ingredients. First, rinse the strawberries under cold water. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
   Tip: Make sure your strawberries are ripe and sweet for the best flavor.
2. Next, remove the green tops from the strawberries and slice them in half lengthwise. Set them aside.
   Tip: If your strawberries are particularly large, you can slice them into quarters instead.
3. Then, cut the fresh mozzarella cheese into thin slices. Set aside.
   Tip: For a more rustic look, you can tear the mozzarella into small pieces.
4. Finally, rinse the basil leaves under cold water and pat them dry. Leave them whole or tear into smaller pieces, depending on your preference.
   Tip: Tearing the basil leaves can release more of their flavor.

Cooking Instructions

1. This salad doesn’t require any cooking, but you’ll need to assemble it. Start by arranging the sliced strawberries and mozzarella on a serving plate. You can layer them, alternate them, or create any pattern you like.
   Tip: For a traditional Caprese look, try alternating slices of strawberry and mozzarella in a circular pattern.
2. Next, sprinkle the basil leaves over the strawberries and mozzarella. Don’t be shy, the more basil, the better!
   Tip: Basil is a key ingredient in Caprese salad, so don’t skimp on it.
3. Drizzle the balsamic glaze evenly over the salad. Start with a small amount, you can always add more later.
   Tip: You can easily make your own balsamic glaze by reducing balsamic vinegar on the stove until it thickens into a syrup.

Finishing Touches

1. Season your salad to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
   Tip: Remember, the mozzarella is already quite salty, so go easy on the salt.
2. Garnish your salad with a few extra basil leaves for a pop of green color.
3. Serve your Sweet & Savory Strawberry Caprese Salad chilled, alongside a glass of sparkling Prosecco.
   Tip: Chilling your salad in the fridge for a bit before serving can help the flavors meld together.