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Fresh Caprese Salad Recipe Easy Homemade with Sweet Balsamic Reduction

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A quick and easy fresh Caprese salad featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella, enhanced with a homemade sweet balsamic reduction for a rich, tangy flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large ripe tomatoes (heirloom or vine-ripened)
  • 15–20 fresh basil leaves
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella or bocconcini
  • 1 cup (240 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons (25 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: crushed red pepper flakes
  • Optional: toasted pine nuts
  • Optional: fresh mint leaves (as a basil substitute)
  • Optional: dairy-free mozzarella alternative for vegan version
  • Optional: honey or maple syrup as sugar substitute

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Balsamic Reduction: Pour 1 cup (240 ml) of balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 2 tablespoons (25 g) of granulated sugar. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until the liquid thickens and reduces by half, forming a syrupy glaze. Watch closely near the end to prevent burning. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  2. Slice the Tomatoes and Mozzarella: While the balsamic reduces, wash and dry 3 large ripe tomatoes. Slice them into ¼-inch (6 mm) thick rounds. Slice 8 ounces (225 g) of fresh mozzarella into similar thickness. Try to keep slices even for a neat presentation.
  3. Arrange the Salad: On a large serving platter, alternate slices of tomato and mozzarella in a slightly overlapping pattern. Tuck fresh basil leaves (about 15-20 leaves) between the slices, distributing them evenly.
  4. Season the Salad: Drizzle 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of extra virgin olive oil over the entire salad. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  5. Drizzle the Balsamic Reduction: Using a spoon, drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze over the salad in a zigzag or circular pattern. Start with about 2 tablespoons (30 ml) and add more if desired.
  6. Final Touch: Optionally, garnish with additional whole basil leaves or a few twists of black pepper. Serve immediately or chill briefly for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Notes

Dip the knife in warm water between slicing mozzarella for cleaner cuts. Pat tomato slices dry with paper towels to avoid watery salad. Watch balsamic reduction closely to prevent burning. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours and bring to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese salad, balsamic reduction, fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, easy salad, Italian appetizer, healthy salad, quick recipe

Find it online: https://elvafood.com/fresh-caprese-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-with-sweet-balsamic-reduction/