Print

Strawberry Caprese Salad with Walnuts

Strawberry Caprese Salad with Walnuts

Strawberry Caprese Salad with Walnuts is a vibrant and refreshing twist on the classic caprese, combining juicy strawberries, creamy fresh mozzarella, aromatic basil, and crunchy toasted walnuts. This salad offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, nutty, and fresh flavors, ideal for warm days, gatherings, light meals, or as an elegant appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pint fresh strawberries, washed and sliced
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (preferably buffalo mozzarella), torn or sliced into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, washed and dried
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted

For Dressing and Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Wash and dry the strawberries and basil leaves thoroughly. Slice the strawberries evenly and tear or slice the mozzarella into bite-sized portions.
  2. Toast the Walnuts: Lightly toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and golden, to enhance their flavor and crunch.
  3. Assemble the Salad: On a large serving plate, layer the strawberries, mozzarella, and basil leaves evenly. Scatter the toasted walnuts on top to add a delightful texture contrast.
  4. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze or a splash of balsamic vinegar evenly over the salad. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and contrasting textures at their best. Best served fresh but can be prepared shortly before serving.

Notes

  • Pick the ripest strawberries for the best sweet and fresh flavor.
  • Keep a close eye on walnuts when toasting to avoid bitterness from overcooking.
  • Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for deeper flavor without overpowering other ingredients.
  • Balsamic glaze adds a syrupy sweetness that balances tartness and creaminess.
  • Serve the salad at room temperature to allow flavors to meld but before mozzarella chills too much.

Nutrition

Keywords: Strawberry Caprese, Caprese Salad, Strawberry Salad, Walnut Salad, Fresh Mozzarella Salad, Summer Salad, Appetizer, Light Meal, Gluten Free