Description
Strawberry Tomato Balsamic Salad is a vibrant and refreshing summer salad that perfectly balances juicy strawberries and sweet cherry tomatoes with creamy fresh mozzarella, aromatic basil, and a tangy balsamic dressing. This easy no-cook recipe comes together in minutes, making it an ideal side dish, appetizer, or light lunch that celebrates the best flavors of the season.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella pearls or diced mozzarella
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 2 tablespoons toasted sliced almonds (optional)
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad Base: Add the sliced strawberries, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and torn basil leaves to a large serving bowl to combine all the main salad ingredients.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and emulsified.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the freshly prepared dressing over the salad ingredients just before serving to keep the fruit and basil fresh, then gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Add Toasted Almonds: Sprinkle the toasted sliced almonds on top for added crunch and flavor, if using.
- Serve or Chill: Serve the salad immediately for best texture and flavor, or chill it in the refrigerator for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm strawberries and cherry tomatoes to maintain a perfect texture and to avoid sogginess.
- Add the dressing only shortly before serving to keep the strawberries and basil fresh and vibrant.
- Fresh mozzarella pearls work best for this salad, but you can substitute with feta or goat cheese if desired.
- Enhance the salad by adding avocado slices, fresh arugula, or toasted pecans for extra flavor and texture.
- If your strawberries are naturally very sweet, you can omit the honey in the dressing to balance the flavors.
- This salad is at its best when enjoyed the same day it is made for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, American