The Caprese Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad is the perfect dish for a warm, sunny day. Combining the sweetness of strawberries, the tanginess of balsamic vinegar, and the creaminess of fresh mozzarella, this salad is a refreshing blend of flavors. Whether you’re preparing a light lunch, a side for dinner, or a dish for a summer party, this vibrant salad is guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into the details and explore how to make this colorful and delicious dish.
What is the Caprese Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad?
The Caprese Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad is a contemporary twist on the classic Caprese salad, which traditionally includes tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil. This version incorporates fresh strawberries, spinach, and a tangy balsamic dressing, offering a delightful mix of sweet, savory, and creamy elements. The strawberries bring a burst of natural sweetness, while the balsamic vinegar adds a subtle sharpness that complements the creaminess of the mozzarella and the earthy flavor of spinach.
This salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It combines fresh vegetables with the creaminess of mozzarella and the nutty crunch from optional toasted nuts, making it a versatile and satisfying dish for any occasion.
The Origin of Caprese Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad
The Caprese Salad hails from Italy and is traditionally made with tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, olive oil, and sometimes salt and pepper. It’s said to represent the colors of the Italian flag—red, white, and green. The modern-day Caprese Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad is a creative variation, inspired by the traditional Caprese but with the inclusion of fresh strawberries, which are often associated with the summer season and are a perfect fit for this dish’s bright, fresh vibe.
Adding balsamic vinegar and spinach to the original recipe introduces even more complexity and layers of flavor. The sweetness of the strawberries paired with the balsamic glaze creates an unexpected but delightful balance, making this salad a unique twist on the classic Italian dish.
Ingredients for Caprese Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad
For 2–4 servings, you’ll need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups baby spinach (or mixed greens)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved
- ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 2 tbsp toasted nuts (optional — almonds, pecans, or walnuts add crunch)
Balsamic Dressing:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1½ tbsp balsamic vinegar (or balsamic glaze for a thicker finish)
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- ½ tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Directions for Preparation
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Caprese Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad:
- Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk (or shake) together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until the ingredients are fully emulsified and the dressing is smooth. If you prefer a thicker finish, you can swap the balsamic vinegar for balsamic glaze, which provides a more concentrated flavor and a richer texture. - Assemble the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, start layering your salad. First, add the baby spinach (or mixed greens) as the base. Then, arrange the sliced strawberries, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, red onion (if you’re using it), and torn basil leaves. The key is to create a visually appealing and balanced arrangement of these ingredients. - Dress and Toss:
Drizzle the freshly made balsamic dressing over the salad. Gently toss everything together to ensure the dressing evenly coats all the ingredients. Be careful not to bruise the delicate spinach or strawberries—just a light toss will do. - Finish and Serve:
For an added texture and flavor boost, sprinkle toasted nuts (such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts) on top. Serve the salad immediately to preserve the fresh flavors of the ingredients. This salad is best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispness and flavor.
Tips & Variations for Caprese Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad
This salad is incredibly versatile, and there are many ways to tweak the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp. Both options pair beautifully with the fresh ingredients and balsamic dressing.
- Swap the Greens: If you prefer a bit more bite to your salad, swap the spinach for arugula. Arugula’s peppery flavor provides a nice contrast to the sweetness of the strawberries and the richness of the mozzarella.
- Use a Balsamic Reduction: For a more gourmet touch, you can substitute the balsamic dressing with a balsamic reduction. This thicker, sweeter glaze adds a sophisticated depth of flavor to the dish.
- Seasonal Variations: While strawberries are perfect for summer, you can easily adapt the recipe for other seasons. Try peaches or raspberries instead of strawberries for a unique twist that aligns with what’s in season.
FAQs About Caprese Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad
Q: Can I make this salad in advance?
A: While it’s best to enjoy this salad fresh, you can prepare the individual components in advance. Store the dressing, sliced strawberries, and mozzarella balls separately to keep the salad fresh until you’re ready to assemble it. Toss everything together just before serving.
Q: Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
A: Yes! To make this salad vegan-friendly, simply replace the mozzarella with dairy-free cheese or tofu. Ensure that your balsamic dressing is free of honey or use a plant-based sweetener.
Q: Can I prepare the balsamic dressing in advance?
A: Yes, you can make the balsamic dressing ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using.
Conclusion
The Caprese Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines the best of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors. With its vibrant colors and light, fresh ingredients, it’s the perfect choice for a summer meal or an elegant side dish. The recipe is easy to customize, whether you’re adding protein, changing the greens, or experimenting with different fruits. No matter how you tweak it, this salad is sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or looking for a quick and healthy lunch, the Caprese Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad is a versatile and delicious option that will become a staple in your recipe rotation.
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Caprese Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad: A Fresh and Flavorful Delight
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
The Caprese Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad is a contemporary twist on the classic Caprese salad, which traditionally includes tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil. This version incorporates fresh strawberries, spinach, and a tangy balsamic dressing, offering a delightful mix of sweet, savory, and creamy elements. The strawberries bring a burst of natural sweetness, while the balsamic vinegar adds a subtle sharpness that complements the creaminess of the mozzarella and the earthy flavor of spinach.
Ingredients
Salad:
4 cups baby spinach (or mixed greens)
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved
¼ small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
2 tbsp toasted nuts (optional — almonds, pecans, or walnuts add crunch)
Balsamic Dressing:
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1½ tbsp balsamic vinegar (or balsamic glaze for a thicker finish)
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
½ tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Make the dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk (or shake) together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified.Assemble the salad:
In a large bowl, layer spinach, strawberries, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, onion (if using), and basil.Dress and toss:
Drizzle with balsamic dressing and toss gently to coat.
Sprinkle toasted nuts on top for texture.Serve immediately for best flavor and freshness.
Notes
This Caprese Balsamic Strawberry Spinach Salad is a refreshing twist on the classic Caprese! The sweetness of strawberries pairs beautifully with creamy mozzarella and tangy balsamic glaze. Add some toasted nuts like almonds or pecans for crunch, or grilled chicken for extra protein. Perfect for a light lunch or elegant summer side dish!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 260
Keywords: Strawberry Spinach Salad, Caprese Salad with Balsamic, Fresh Spinach Strawberry Salad
