When the weather warms up and fresh produce is at its peak, there’s nothing better than a simple, elegant salad that lets the ingredients shine. This Fresh Mozzarella Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction is a refreshing twist on the classic Caprese, swapping tomatoes for juicy strawberries and pairing them with creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of sweet, tangy balsamic glaze.

This salad is as easy to make as it is beautiful to serve. It’s perfect as a light lunch, a colorful side dish, or even an appetizer when you want to impress with minimal effort. The sweet strawberries and balsamic contrast wonderfully with the creamy mozzarella, while the fresh basil ties everything together with its herbal brightness.

The first time I made this variation of Caprese salad, I was looking for a way to use up a batch of fresh strawberries I picked up from the farmer’s market. I already had fresh mozzarella in the fridge and a bottle of balsamic glaze in the pantry—within minutes, I had a dish that was not only visually stunning but bursting with fresh flavor. It quickly became a go-to when I want something light, seasonal, and crowd-pleasing.

Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to get started and begin building this gorgeous, flavor-packed salad.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced or in small balls (bocconcini)
• Fresh basil leaves
• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

STEP 1: Layer the Strawberries and Mozzarella

Start by arranging the sliced strawberries and mozzarella on a serving platter. You can alternate the slices in a circular pattern or line them up neatly in rows—whichever presentation fits the occasion. If you’re using bocconcini (the small mozzarella balls), you can halve them or leave them whole for a more rustic look.

This combination of red and white, accented by the green basil, creates a vibrant dish that looks as good as it tastes.

STEP 2: Add Fresh Basil Leaves

Tuck whole basil leaves between the slices of strawberry and mozzarella. The fresh basil not only adds color but also brings that unmistakable aroma and flavor that’s essential in any Caprese-style dish.

Use as much or as little basil as you like—some people prefer just a hint, while others love a strong herbal presence in every bite.

Fresh Mozzarella Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction

With your strawberries, mozzarella, and basil artfully layered, this salad is already looking fresh, elegant, and colorful. Now it’s time to add the finishing touches that bring all the flavors together. A good-quality olive oil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze give this dish its final lift—adding richness, brightness, and just the right amount of sweetness.

This part of the recipe couldn’t be easier, and yet it’s where all the individual ingredients start to shine as one cohesive dish. The olive oil softens and rounds out the flavors, while the balsamic glaze provides a concentrated tang that plays perfectly against the sweetness of the strawberries and the creaminess of the mozzarella.

Let’s walk through the last steps to complete your salad and make it table-ready.

STEP 3: Drizzle with Olive Oil and Balsamic Glaze

Drizzle the salad lightly with olive oil. You don’t need a lot—just enough to add a silky texture and depth to the flavors. Use a spoon or small pour spout to control the flow so you don’t overwhelm the delicate ingredients.

Next, drizzle on the balsamic glaze. You can go with a light hand for just a touch of sweetness, or make a few bold sweeps across the platter for dramatic effect. The balsamic glaze adds that signature tangy-sweet note and brings a beautiful contrast in both flavor and appearance.

Tip: If you don’t have balsamic glaze on hand, you can make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until it reduces by half and becomes syrupy. It adds the same richness and gloss that makes this salad pop.

STEP 4: Season with Salt and Pepper

Finish the salad with a light sprinkle of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. A pinch of salt helps highlight the sweetness of the strawberries and the creaminess of the mozzarella, while the pepper adds just a hint of sharpness that rounds out the dish.

Taste as you go, and remember—you can always add more later if needed.

STEP 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Fresh Mozzarella Caprese Salad immediately, while the ingredients are still cool and fresh. It’s best enjoyed slightly chilled, which makes it especially refreshing in the warmer months.

This salad is perfect as a:

• Light lunch on its own
• Side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or pasta
• Appetizer for a dinner party or summer gathering

It also pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, sparkling water with lemon, or even a refreshing iced tea.

Optional Add-Ins and Variations

Want to take this salad a step further? Here are a few simple ways to change it up while keeping the spirit of the dish intact:

• Add avocado slices for creaminess and a little extra richness
• Swap in heirloom tomatoes with the strawberries for a traditional-meets-modern combo
• Use burrata cheese instead of mozzarella for an even creamier texture
• Sprinkle crushed pistachios or sliced almonds on top for added crunch
• Serve on a bed of arugula or baby greens to turn it into a heartier salad

Fresh Mozzarella Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction

You’ve built the base, added the drizzle, and seasoned it just right—now you’re ready to serve a dish that’s as flavorful as it is visually stunning. This Fresh Mozzarella Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction is proof that a few simple ingredients, when paired thoughtfully, can create something truly special.

Whether you’re serving it as a side, an appetizer, or a light meal, this salad is versatile enough for everything from casual lunches to elegant dinners. And thanks to its fresh, vibrant ingredients, it never feels heavy—even with the rich addition of mozzarella and balsamic glaze.

Before we wrap up, here are some frequently asked questions and final tips to help you make the most of this seasonal favorite.

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead. Slice the strawberries and mozzarella and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Assemble and drizzle just before serving to keep everything crisp and vibrant.

2. What’s the difference between balsamic glaze and balsamic vinegar?
Balsamic glaze is a reduction of balsamic vinegar, often sweetened and simmered until thick and syrupy. It’s more concentrated, sweeter, and less acidic—ideal for drizzling over fresh dishes like this salad.

3. What kind of mozzarella should I use?
Use fresh mozzarella for best results—either a ball you slice yourself or small balls like bocconcini or ciliegine. Avoid pre-shredded or low-moisture varieties, as they don’t have the same creamy texture or delicate flavor.

4. Can I use another fruit besides strawberries?
Absolutely. Sliced peaches, nectarines, or even watermelon make great alternatives, especially during peak summer months. Each brings its own flavor and sweetness, while still pairing beautifully with the mozzarella and basil.

5. How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 1 day. The basil may wilt and the strawberries may soften, so it’s best enjoyed shortly after assembling.

6. Is there a way to make this salad more filling?
Yes. Serve it on a bed of greens like arugula or spinach, or add a scoop of quinoa or grilled chicken to turn it into a more complete meal.

7. Can I make a dairy-free version?
You can omit the mozzarella entirely or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative. The salad will still have plenty of flavor from the basil, strawberries, and balsamic glaze.

Final Thoughts: A Fresh, Elegant Take on a Classic Favorite

This Fresh Mozzarella Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction is everything a great salad should be—simple, seasonal, and packed with flavor. It celebrates the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries, the creaminess of mozzarella, and the freshness of basil, all elevated with a touch of balsamic glaze and olive oil.

It’s a dish that proves you don’t need complicated ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create something memorable. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself to something fresh and beautiful, this salad is a reliable go-to that always delivers.

Give it a try, and if you find your own twist—whether it’s a different fruit, a special garnish, or a creative presentation—feel free to share. It’s the kind of dish that invites creativity and tastes just as amazing as it looks.

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