Does Caprese use balsamic vinegar?

Traditional Caprese salad doesn’t include balsamic vinegar — just tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. But modern versions often feature balsamic drizzle or vinaigrette for added depth. It’s especially common in variations like balsamic strawberry Caprese, where the acidity enhances the sweetness of the fruit.

What do you do with strawberry balsamic vinegar?

Strawberry balsamic vinegar is perfect for more than just salads. Use it as a marinade for grilled chicken or pork, drizzle it over vanilla ice cream or fresh berries, or whisk it into vinaigrettes. For a quick appetizer, try a few drops over burrata with crusty bread — it’s a flavor bomb.

What is the secret to a good Caprese salad?

The secret is in the freshness. Use ripe fruit (whether tomatoes or strawberries), high-quality mozzarella or burrata, and real extra-virgin olive oil. Let the cheese come to room temp before serving, and add a touch of flaky sea salt to enhance the flavors. A restrained drizzle of good balsamic ties everything together.

What is the difference between Capri and Caprese?

“Capri” is an island off the coast of Italy, famous for its beauty and breezy Mediterranean vibe. “Caprese” means “from Capri” and refers to the classic Italian salad that originated there — traditionally made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Over time, the word “Caprese” has come to describe this fresh, simple flavor combination, even in twists like the strawberry version.

Balsamic Strawberry Caprese Salad That’ll Wow Your Summer Table

Name: Balsamic Strawberry Caprese
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved; 1 cup mozzarella pearls or 2 balls burrata; 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves; 2 tbsp aged balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze; 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Flaky sea salt to taste; Optional: candied pecans or pistachios for crunch

Description

Sweet, tangy, and refreshing, this Balsamic Strawberry Caprese salad is a stunning twist on the Italian classic. It blends fresh strawberries, creamy mozzarella or burrata, and basil, finished with a rich balsamic glaze.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved

1 cup mozzarella pearls or 2 balls burrata

1/3 cup fresh basil leaves

2 tbsp aged balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Flaky sea salt to taste

Optional: candied pecans or pistachios for crunch

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Instructions

1. Arrange the strawberries and mozzarella on a serving platter.

2. Tuck in basil leaves between the layers.

3. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar or glaze.

4. Sprinkle with sea salt and optional nuts.

5. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use high-quality balsamic vinegar or reduce it for a more intense flavor.

Let cheese come to room temperature before plating.

This salad is best served fresh, but can be prepped up to 2 hours in advance.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salads
Method: No-bake
Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 220
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 30mg