Strawberry Tomato Balsamic Salad Recipe
A refreshing and vibrant Strawberry Tomato Balsamic Salad combining the sweetness of fresh strawberries and cherry tomatoes with aromatic herbs, creamy mozzarella, and a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect as a light appetizer or side dish for warm weather meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Salad
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (340g | 12 oz)
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (340g | 12 oz)
- 2 tbsp shallot, finely chopped (about 1 small shallot)
- 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella pearls or a large ball torn into small pieces (115g) – optional
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Dressing
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (30 ml)
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar (30 ml) or more to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruits: Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes and hull and slice the strawberries evenly to ensure consistent bite size throughout the salad.
- Chop Aromatics: Finely chop the shallot, fresh basil, and mint leaves separately to release their fresh aromas and flavors into the salad.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently toss together the cherry tomatoes, sliced strawberries, shallot, basil, and mint along with the fresh mozzarella pearls or torn mozzarella pieces if using.
- Season the Salad: Sprinkle the salad with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as preferred.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of balsamic glaze or vinegar over the salad. Toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients with the flavorful dressing.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately as a fresh and vibrant side dish or chilled for 10-15 minutes for flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- For a vegan option, omit the mozzarella or substitute with a plant-based cheese.
- Balsamic glaze provides a sweeter, thicker dressing compared to balsamic vinegar; adjust quantity to taste.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries and tomatoes for best flavor.
- Can be prepared ahead and chilled for up to 1 hour; add dressing just before serving if preferring firmer tomatoes.
- Adjust herbs according to preference or availability, parsley can be a good substitute.
