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Strawberry Cucumber Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze

Strawberry Cucumber Caprese Salad - featured image
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A vibrant summer salad featuring sweet strawberries, crisp cucumber, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, all finished with a tangy balsamic glaze. This easy, refreshing side dish is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any warm-weather gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (about 8 oz)
  • 1 medium English cucumber, sliced into half-moons (about 1 cup)
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or bocconcini, about 4 oz)
  • 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or thinly sliced (10–15 leaves)
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (optional)
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Hull and slice the strawberries into thick rounds or halves.
  2. Slice the cucumber into half-moons, about 1/4-inch thick.
  3. Drain mozzarella balls and pat dry with a paper towel. If using a large ball, tear into bite-size chunks.
  4. Tear or thinly slice the basil leaves.
  5. If making homemade balsamic glaze: Simmer 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar with 1 tablespoon honey in a small saucepan over medium heat, then reduce to low and cook until thick and syrupy, about 7-10 minutes. Let cool.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine strawberries, cucumber, mozzarella, and basil.
  7. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper, and toss lightly.
  8. Transfer salad to a serving platter or bowl. Drizzle with balsamic glaze in thin zig-zags or circles.
  9. Serve immediately, or refrigerate ingredients separately and assemble just before serving.

Notes

For best results, use firm, ripe strawberries and English or Persian cucumber. Pat mozzarella dry to avoid excess moisture. Toss gently to prevent bruising the berries and basil. Make balsamic glaze ahead for convenience. Add toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds for extra crunch. For dairy-free, substitute vegan mozzarella or avocado.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry caprese salad, summer salad, balsamic glaze, picnic side, gluten-free, vegetarian, easy salad, mozzarella, basil, cucumber salad

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/strawberry-cucumber-caprese-salad-recipe-easy-summer-side-with-balsamic-glaze/