Avocado Caprese Salad is like a summer day on your plate, bursting with freshness and flavor. Imagine biting into creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil, all harmoniously dancing with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This dish is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just when you want to feel fancy without breaking a sweat.

Whenever I whip up this Avocado Caprese Salad, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s garden where she would proudly showcase her homegrown tomatoes. The vibrant colors and rich aromas filled the air, creating an unforgettable experience. So whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself after a long day, this salad promises an explosion of flavors that will have your taste buds singing!

Ingredients for Avocado Caprese Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ripe Avocados: Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure; this indicates they’re perfectly ripe for slicing.
• Fresh Mozzarella Balls: Opt for the small bocconcini or ciliegine varieties; they add creaminess and are easy to handle.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Choose vibrant red or yellow tomatoes; these bite-sized beauties burst with sweetness in every mouthful.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Use fragrant basil leaves to elevate the salad’s flavor; tear them by hand for better aroma release.
• Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds tangy sweetness; you can store-bought or homemade versions.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

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How to Make Avocado Caprese Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by washing your cherry tomatoes thoroughly under cold water. Slice them in half and place them in a bowl.

Step 2: Slice the Avocados

Carefully cut your ripe avocados in half, removing the pit with a spoon. Scoop out the flesh gently and slice it into wedges.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced avocados, and mozzarella balls. Gently toss everything together so that each ingredient gets acquainted without turning mushy.

Step 4: Add Fresh Basil

Tear fresh basil leaves by hand and sprinkle them over the mixture. This not only enhances flavor but also adds an aromatic touch.

Step 5: Drizzle Balsamic Glaze

Finish off your masterpiece by drizzling balsamic glaze over the salad. This adds depth and an irresistible glossy finish.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Transfer your Avocado Caprese Salad onto serving plates or a beautiful platter. Garnish with extra basil if desired and watch it disappear!

Now sit back and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors while reminiscing about those sunny garden days!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by slicing your ripe avocados and tomatoes while the mozzarella balls are draining. Assemble everything on a large platter and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar right before serving for maximum freshness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to switch up the cheese with feta or goat cheese for a twist. Add in some fresh basil pesto for an extra layer of flavor, or sprinkle in some chili flakes if you’re feeling spicy.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To maintain freshness, avoid adding dressing until you’re ready to eat. This salad is best enjoyed cold!

Sharing this recipe reminds me of that summer barbecue when my friend insisted on bringing her infamous potato salad—bless her heart. I whipped out this Avocado Caprese Salad, and let’s just say it stole the show!

FAQs:

What Ingredients Do I Need for Avocado Caprese Salad?

To create a delicious Avocado Caprese Salad, you will need fresh ingredients. Gather ripe avocados, mozzarella cheese (or a plant-based alternative), fresh basil leaves, cherry tomatoes, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice. This combination gives the salad its signature taste while ensuring it remains light and refreshing.

How Do I Make Avocado Caprese Salad?

Making Avocado Caprese Salad is straightforward. Start by slicing the avocados and mozzarella into thick pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Arrange these ingredients on a plate in alternating layers, placing fresh basil leaves between them. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the top, then season with salt and pepper to taste. This vibrant dish can be served immediately or chilled for a short time before serving.

Can I Make Avocado Caprese Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare Avocado Caprese Salad ahead of time! However, to maintain the freshness of the avocado and prevent browning, store each ingredient separately until you’re ready to serve. Combine them just before serving, drizzle with olive oil and vinegar, and season accordingly. If you want to prep ahead for a gathering, this salad is excellent because it requires minimal assembly at the last minute.

What Variations Can I Try with Avocado Caprese Salad?

There are many delightful variations to try with Avocado Caprese Salad! For instance, you can substitute mozzarella with burrata for a creamier texture or use heirloom tomatoes for added color and flavor. Adding roasted bell peppers or olives can offer different tastes and textures as well. You could also try incorporating grains like quinoa or farro for extra nutrition. Get creative based on your preferences!

Conclusion for Avocado Caprese Salad:

In summary, the Avocado Caprese Salad offers a vibrant blend of flavors that is both simple to make and visually appealing. By using fresh ingredients like avocados, mozzarella (or alternatives), basil, and tomatoes, this dish shines in its simplicity. The addition of olive oil and balsamic vinegar enhances its taste without overpowering it. Whether served as an appetizer or a side dish, this salad brings freshness to any meal while being adaptable to various dietary preferences. Enjoy this healthy delight anytime!

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Avocado Caprese Salad

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Avocado Caprese Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that beautifully combines creamy avocados, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella. Enhanced by aromatic basil and a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze, this salad is perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or as a light meal. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s not only quick to prepare but also visually stunning—making it an ideal centerpiece for any gathering.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 ripe avocados
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (torn)
• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze

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Instructions

1. Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes, placing them in a bowl.
2. Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, scoop out the flesh, and slice into wedges.
3. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, and mozzarella balls. Gently toss together.
4. Tear basil leaves by hand and sprinkle over the mixture.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad before serving.
6. Serve immediately on plates or a platter and enjoy!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: For added flavor variation, substitute mozzarella with burrata or feta cheese. Consider adding roasted bell peppers or olives for extra taste. To prevent browning, slice avocados just before serving.