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Strawberry Tomato Balsamic Salad Recipe


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4.2 from 39 reviews

  • Author: Alice
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Add Toasted Almonds: Sprinkle the toasted sliced almonds on top for added crunch and flavor, if using.
  5. 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