Name: Chopped Caprese Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: ½ cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons honey; 10 ounces cherry tomatoes, chopped in half; 8 ounces Mozzarella Ciliegine (cherry-sized whole milk fresh mozzarella); ¼ cup chopped fresh basil; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Introduction

Chopped Caprese Salad is a fresh and vibrant twist on the classic Italian favorite. Bursting with juicy tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, it’s finished with a sweet and tangy balsamic reduction that brings all the flavors together beautifully.

A white bowl with two handles holds a fresh salad made of bright red cherry tomatoes halved, creamy white small mozzarella balls, and scattered small pieces of bright green chopped basil. The salad is drizzled with a glossy dark brown balsamic glaze that creates shiny streaks over the top, giving a rich contrast to the fresh colors. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and the image captures the close-up details of the textures and colors of the salad. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

½ cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
10 ounces cherry tomatoes, chopped in half
8 ounces Mozzarella Ciliegine (cherry-sized whole milk fresh mozzarella)
¼ cup chopped fresh basil
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a small saucepan over high heat, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook until reduced by about half and thickened to a syrupy consistency, approximately 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat carefully to avoid it becoming too thick.
Step 2: In a large bowl, toss together the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and chopped basil. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Drizzle the balsamic reduction over the salad gradually, tossing and tasting as you go, until it reaches your preferred flavor level.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh mozzarella straight from the refrigerator for a firmer texture or let it rest at room temperature for a creamier taste.
Try adding a splash of good quality olive oil for extra richness.
Substitute honey with maple syrup or brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
Include sliced avocado or toasted pine nuts to add more texture and flavor.

Storage

Store the chopped Caprese salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh because the mozzarella can soften and tomatoes may release water over time. Keep the balsamic reduction separate and drizzle before serving to maintain the best texture.

How to Serve

A white bowl with handles holds a fresh salad made of bright red cherry tomato halves mixed with small white mozzarella balls. The salad is topped with thin green basil strips and drizzled with a dark balsamic glaze, adding shiny texture and contrast. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface next to a folded checkered napkin and an old-fashioned silver fork. The colors are vibrant and natural, highlighting the fresh ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular mozzarella instead of Mozzarella Ciliegine?

Yes, you can use regular fresh mozzarella, but consider cutting it into bite-sized pieces to mimic the smaller mozzarella balls for even distribution in the salad.

How long can I store the balsamic reduction?

The balsamic reduction can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Gently warm it before drizzling if it thickens too much.