Description
A vibrant Caprese salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, blueberries, and basil, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Perfect as a light lunch, appetizer, or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pint (about 2 cups) fresh cherry tomatoes, preferably a mix of red and yellow
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, preferably small balls (bocconcini) or ciliegine
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar, reduced slightly)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Arugula or baby spinach for serving as a base
Instructions
- Rinse cherry tomatoes under cold water and pat dry. Halve or quarter larger tomatoes; leave small ones whole.
- Leave bocconcini or ciliegine mozzarella balls whole. Slice larger mozzarella into bite-sized pieces.
- Gently rinse blueberries under cold water and pat dry. Remove any stems or damaged berries.
- Wash basil leaves and pat dry. Tear or roughly chop the leaves.
- Arrange tomatoes, mozzarella, and blueberries on a platter, alternating colors. Scatter basil leaves over the top.
- Combine tomatoes, mozzarella, and blueberries in a bowl. Add basil leaves and gently toss.
- Arrange arugula or baby spinach on each plate (optional). Arrange tomatoes, mozzarella, and blueberries on top. Scatter basil leaves.
- Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the salad.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad. If using balsamic vinegar, reduce it slightly by simmering over low heat until thickened, then cool before using.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve the salad immediately after assembling.
Notes
- Use the freshest ingredients possible for the best flavor.
- For balsamic glaze, you can simmer 1 cup of balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over low heat for 20-30 minutes, or until reduced by half and thickened. Cool completely before using.
- Experiment with different types of tomatoes, mozzarella, or add-ins like avocado or prosciutto.
- Caprese salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or pasta.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day or two, but the mozzarella may become watery.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes