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Creamy Bocconcini and Cherry Tomato Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze Recipe

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4.3 from 3 reviews

This classic Caprese Salad is a fresh and vibrant Italian appetizer featuring ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy bocconcini cheese, and fragrant basil, all enhanced with a tangy homemade dressing and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick, elegant starter or light meal.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Salad

  • 220 g (7 oz) bocconcini (baby or cherry mozzarella), halved
  • 500 g (1 lb) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped
  • Balsamic glaze or reduction, for drizzling

Dressing

  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (or other non-spicy mustard)
  • 2.5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
  • 1/4 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp dried parsley
  • 1/4 tsp dried thyme (or rosemary optionally)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Make the Dressing: In a jar or small bowl, combine the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, extra virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, dried oregano, dried parsley, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Shake or whisk well until fully emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  2. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, halved bocconcini, and most of the torn basil leaves. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the ingredients and toss gently to evenly coat everything without bruising the tomatoes or cheese.
  3. Assemble for Serving: Transfer the tossed salad to a shallow serving bowl or platter, arranging it attractively.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, drizzle the salad generously with balsamic glaze or reduction to add a sweet tangy finish. Sprinkle the remaining fresh basil leaves over the top for a burst of color and aroma. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness of all ingredients.

Notes

  • Use fresh, high-quality bocconcini or small mozzarella balls for the best texture and flavor.
  • Balsamic glaze can be store-bought or homemade by reducing balsamic vinegar until thick and syrupy.
  • The white wine vinegar adds brightness without overpowering the delicate ingredients, but you can substitute with lemon juice if desired.
  • This salad is best served fresh; avoid leaving it to sit too long as the cheese can release moisture.
  • Optional herbs like rosemary can be used but traditional oregano, parsley, and thyme keep it classic.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://yourdailycook.com/creamy-bocconcini-and-cherry-tomato-caprese-salad-with-balsamic-glaze-recipe/