Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction – Fresh, Flavorful, and Elegant
Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction is the kind of dish that makes you appreciate the beauty of simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients – ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze – you can create something that feels both elegant and effortless. This salad is a summertime staple. It’s perfect for backyard dinners, cookouts, or as a refreshing appetizer alongside grilled meats.
The balsamic reduction takes it a step beyond the traditional version. It concentrates the flavor of the vinegar into a glossy glaze that clings to every bite and creates a satisfying balance of acidity and sweetness. Whether you’re entertaining or just treating yourself, this Caprese Salad will leave you reaching for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
There’s a reason Caprese Salad is such a timeless favorite – it hits all the right notes. When enhanced with a balsamic reduction, it becomes something truly special.
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Fresh and Seasonal – Ideal for summer when tomatoes are at their peak.
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Quick to Prepare – Just slice, reduce, drizzle, and serve.
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Visually Beautiful – A colorful presentation perfect for entertaining.
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Naturally Gluten-Free and Vegetarian – Great for a variety of diets.
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Flavor-Packed – Sweet, tangy, creamy, and herbal all in one bite.
Ingredient Highlights
The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in building flavor and texture:
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Tomatoes bring vibrant color and juicy sweetness. Opt for vine-ripened or heirloom varieties for the best flavor.
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Fresh mozzarella adds creamy richness. Use whole milk mozzarella or try burrata for a luxurious twist.
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Fresh basil leaves deliver bright, herbal notes that tie the dish together.
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Balsamic vinegar, simmered down to a syrupy glaze, adds complex sweetness and tang.
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Olive oil, just a drizzle, brings out the richness of the cheese and tomatoes.
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Salt and black pepper enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them.
You can also add a small spoonful of honey to the vinegar if you’d like a sweeter glaze.
How to Make Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction
Start by prepping your ingredients: slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into even rounds, and rinse and dry your basil leaves. On a serving platter, alternate slices of tomato and mozzarella, tucking basil leaves between them for color and flavor.
In a small saucepan, simmer the balsamic vinegar over medium heat, stirring occasionally with a whisk. After about 10–15 minutes, it will reduce by half and become thick and syrupy. Let it cool slightly. It will continue to thicken as it rests.
Drizzle the cooled balsamic reduction over the salad, followed by a splash of olive oil. Sprinkle lightly with salt and freshly cracked pepper. That’s it—your dish is ready to serve.
Tips and Variations
This salad is forgiving and adaptable. Here are a few ways to make it your own:
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Add grilled peaches or strawberries for a fruity twist.
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Swap in burrata for an ultra-creamy texture.
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Use multicolored tomatoes to create a stunning presentation.
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Make it a meal by serving with grilled chicken, such as our Moist Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast.
Want to prep ahead? You can make the balsamic glaze up to a week in advance and store it in the fridge.
What to Serve with Caprese Salad
This fresh salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. For a well-rounded summer spread, serve it alongside:
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Grilled chicken or fish – A protein-rich main balances the lightness of the salad.
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Mediterranean sides – Think orzo salads, couscous, or a scoop of your favorite hummus.
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Fresh green salads or light pasta dishes – Keep the meal vibrant and refreshing.
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Charcuterie boards – A colorful complement to cured meats, olives, and cheeses.
Other Recipes to Try
Here are more refreshing recipes that celebrate summer produce and simple prep:
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Mediterranean Orzo Salad – A chilled pasta salad with oranges, bacon, and broccoli.
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Moist Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast – Easy and juicy, perfect as a main for this salad.
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Our Favorite Summer Salads – A full roundup of sunshine-ready dishes.
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Keto Asparagus Salad with Slivered Almonds – For a low-carb option with a similar elegant vibe.
Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction is proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients to make something truly memorable. The combination of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all tied together with a sweet-tangy glaze, makes this dish feel like summer on a plate. It’s fast, fresh, and perfect for entertaining or weeknight dinners. Give it a try – you might just find your new favorite side dish.
Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction
Notes
- You can make the balsamic reduction ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
- For extra visual appeal, use a mix of red and yellow tomatoes.
- Burrata cheese can be used instead of mozzarella for a creamier version.
