Berry Caprese Salad

A Fresh Twist on a Summer Classic

There’s something magical about summer produce. The moment the first juicy berries hit the farmers market stands, memories come flooding back—picnics on sun-warmed grass, long weekend brunches, and family dinners on the back patio. One of my favorite ways to celebrate the bounty of the season is by making Berry Caprese Salad—a vibrant, refreshing dish that captures the very essence of summer in every bite.

This salad is a playful variation of the traditional Caprese, where ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella shine. In this version, we swap tomatoes for sweet berries—strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries—for a burst of flavor and color. The creamy mozzarella pairs beautifully with the berries’ natural tartness, and a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze ties everything together.

Berry Caprese Salad has become a staple at our summer gatherings. It’s quick to prepare, visually stunning, and always the first bowl to be emptied. Whether you’re hosting a garden party or looking for a light lunch to enjoy under the sun, this salad brings elegance and ease to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Vibrant and refreshing: A beautiful mix of fresh berries and herbs.
• Quick and easy: Ready in minutes with no cooking required.
• Perfect for summer: A cool, fruity dish ideal for warm days.
• Crowd-pleaser: Impresses at potlucks, picnics, and brunch tables.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• 1 cup strawberries, sliced
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1 cup blackberries
• 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved if large
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or julienned
• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
• Pinch of sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make Berry Caprese Salad

Making this Berry Caprese Salad is as joyful as eating it. It’s a fuss-free, no-cook dish that celebrates simplicity and seasonality. I like to prepare this salad right before serving to keep the berries fresh and the basil aromatic.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare the Berries: Rinse all the berries under cold water. Gently pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Slice the strawberries into thin rounds or halves, depending on size.
2. Assemble the Ingredients: In a large serving bowl or on a platter, layer the strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and mozzarella balls. You want a good mix of color and texture throughout.

1. Add the Basil: Scatter the fresh basil leaves over the top. I like to tear the basil for a more rustic feel, but you can also chiffonade it for a delicate touch.
2. Finish with Flavor: Drizzle the balsamic glaze evenly over the salad. Add a pinch of sea salt and a few cracks of black pepper.
3. Serve Fresh: Serve immediately while the ingredients are crisp and vibrant. If making ahead, wait to add the glaze and seasoning just before serving.

HELPFUL TIPS:

• Use fresh, firm berries to prevent them from getting mushy.
• Chill the mozzarella balls for a cool and refreshing bite.
• Try flavored balsamic glaze like fig or raspberry for a unique twist.
• Add arugula or spinach if you want a more leafy salad base.
• For extra texture, top with crushed pistachios or sunflower seeds.

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-cook
• Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

NOTES:

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be prepped a few hours ahead without dressing. Use the highest quality berries you can find—they’re the star of the show.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION: (Estimated per serving)

• Calories: 160
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 10g

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I use other berries?
Yes! Raspberries or even sliced grapes work beautifully in this salad.

What kind of mozzarella is best?
Bocconcini or ciliegine mozzarella balls are ideal, but you can slice a mozzarella log or burrata if preferred.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
It can be prepped a few hours ahead, but wait to add basil and glaze until just before serving.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The berries may release juices, so drain excess liquid before serving again.

Related Recipes:

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Balsamic Strawberry Caprese: A Fresh Twist on a Classic Salad

CONCLUSION:

Berry Caprese Salad is more than just a dish—it’s an invitation to slow down and savor the best of the season. With its vivid colors, delightful contrast of flavors, and effortless preparation, this salad is bound to become your go-to for summer entertaining or a quiet al fresco lunch. Every bite is like sunshine on a fork, and I hope it becomes as treasured in your kitchen as it is in mine.

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