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Fresh Caprese Salad Recipe with Sweet Balsamic Glaze

fresh Caprese salad - featured image

A quick and easy fresh Caprese salad featuring ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a homemade sweet balsamic glaze. Perfect for summer gatherings and light meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 medium fresh tomatoes, sliced
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) fresh mozzarella balls
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ cup (120 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 12 tablespoons sugar
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the balsamic glaze: Pour ½ cup (120 ml) balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 1-2 tablespoons sugar. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Stir frequently to dissolve sugar. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until it reduces by half and thickens to a syrupy consistency. Remove from heat and let cool.
  2. Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into about ¼-inch (0.6 cm) thick slices, keeping slices uniform.
  3. Arrange the salad on a platter by alternating slices of tomato and mozzarella, slightly overlapping each. Tuck fresh basil leaves between slices.
  4. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil evenly over the salad. Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper if desired.
  5. Drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze over the salad using a spoon, just enough to add a sweet tangy pop.
  6. Let the salad sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and soften the mozzarella.

Notes

If tomatoes are extra juicy, blot with paper towel before slicing to avoid sogginess. Let balsamic glaze cool before drizzling to prevent melting mozzarella. Serve at room temperature for best flavor. The glaze should be syrupy but pourable; if too thick, stir in a teaspoon of water.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese salad, fresh mozzarella, balsamic glaze, summer salad, easy salad recipe, Italian salad, fresh basil