Description
A refreshing and vibrant Simple Holiday Chopped Caprese salad featuring a colorful mix of cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, dressed with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Perfect for a festive appetizer or light side dish during the holidays.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red and yellow)
- 1 cup cucumber, diced (optional)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine), quartered
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
Dressing and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Combine main ingredients: In a large salad bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber (if using), and quartered mozzarella balls.
- Add herbs: Add the thinly sliced fresh basil leaves to the bowl with the tomatoes, cucumber, and mozzarella.
- Dress salad: Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze over the combined ingredients in the bowl.
- Season: Sprinkle sea salt and freshly ground black pepper evenly over the salad to enhance the flavors.
- Toss ingredients: Gently toss all the ingredients together until they are well combined and evenly coated with the dressing.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving platter or bowl, drizzle with additional balsamic glaze if desired, and serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Notes
- The cucumber is optional and can be omitted for a more traditional Caprese flavor.
- Use a good quality balsamic glaze to enhance the sweetness and acidity balance.
- Serve immediately to keep the fresh basil vibrant and avoid wilting.
- This salad can be made a few hours ahead and kept refrigerated, but add basil and dressing just before serving.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute fresh mozzarella with a vegan cheese alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Caprese Salad, Holiday Salad, Chopped Caprese, Fresh Mozzarella Salad, Easy Italian Salad, No-Cook Salad, Summer Salad
