This Summer Fruit Caprese Salad is a fresh twist on the classic! Juicy strawberries, sweet peaches, and creamy mozzarella come together for a colorful and tasty treat.
It’s like a party on your plate! I love drizzling it with a bit of balsamic glaze—makes everything pop. Perfect for a hot day or a fun picnic! 🍑🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches and Nectarines: Both fruits bring sweetness and a juicy texture to the salad. If they’re out of season, you can swap them for ripe mangoes or even apples for a crunchier bite.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a lovely tartness. If they aren’t available, consider raspberries or cherries as a delightful alternative.
Blackberries: They have a rich, slightly tangy flavor. You can replace them with blueberries for a sweeter option or even grapes if you prefer.
Mozzarella Balls (Bocconcini): These creamy bites are perfect here. If you’re dairy-free, use marinated tofu cubes for a similar texture or omit cheese altogether.
Fresh Basil: Basil gives that quintessential Caprese taste. If you can’t find fresh basil, try using a mix of mint and parsley instead for a refreshing twist.
How Do I Avoid Mashing the Fruit While Mixing?
To keep your fruit intact while mixing, it’s important to be gentle. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a large bowl to give yourself plenty of space.
- Use a soft spatula or wooden spoon instead of a whisk to combine the ingredients.
- Fold in the fruit rather than stirring, which can break down the pieces and make them mushy.
- Add the basil and drizzle the dressings once the fruit is mixed. This reduces the need for vigorous mixing later!
Taking these steps will help you maintain that beautiful look and texture of the salad. Enjoy your fresh creation!
How to Make Summer Fruit Caprese Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups ripe peaches, diced
- 2 cups ripe nectarines, diced
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 1 cup blackberries
- 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Summer Fruit Caprese Salad will take you about 10 minutes to prepare. If you choose to chill it for enhanced flavor, add an extra 15 minutes. That’s just enough time to whip up a refreshing summer side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Fresh Fruits:
In a large salad bowl, toss together the diced peaches, nectarines, and quartered strawberries. Make sure they are mixed well to create a bright, colorful base for your salad.
2. Add the Berries and Cheese:
Gently fold in the blueberries and the mozzarella balls. Be careful while mixing to keep the fruit intact and prevent squishing them.
3. Incorporate Fresh Basil:
Sprinkle the chopped basil leaves over the salad mixture. Give everything a light toss to combine the flavors without damaging the delicate fruit.
4. Drizzle and Season:
Now, drizzle the balsamic glaze and olive oil over your salad. Finally, sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. This will enhance the salad’s flavors, making it even more delicious!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your salad immediately for a refreshing treat! If you have a few minutes, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together. Enjoy your delightful Summer Fruit Caprese Salad!
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in other seasonal fruits like blueberries, cherries, or even watermelon for a unique twist. Just try to keep a balance of sweet and tart flavors for the best taste!
How to Keep the Fruit Fresh?
To keep the fruit from browning, you can toss the chopped peaches and nectarines in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad. This helps maintain their vibrant color and fresh taste!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
While the salad is best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients a few hours in advance. Just keep the balsamic glaze and olive oil separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid soggy fruit!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. However, be aware that the fruit may soften and lose some texture, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
