Avocado Caprese Salad is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish that brings together the creamy richness of ripe avocados with the fresh flavors of tomatoes and mozzarella. This vibrant salad not only looks stunning on the plate but also offers a burst of taste that is simply irresistible. Originating from the island of Capri, the traditional Caprese salad celebrates the colors of the Italian flag with its red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil. However, by adding avocado, we elevate this dish to new heights, making it a favorite among health-conscious food lovers.

People adore Avocado Caprese Salad for its perfect balance of textures—the creaminess of the avocado complements the juicy tomatoes and soft mozzarella beautifully. It’s not just a feast for the eyes; the combination of flavors is refreshing and satisfying, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch or a side dish at gatherings. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to whip up a gourmet salad in no time. Join me as we explore this delicious recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

2 ripe avocados
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Preparing the Ingredients

1. **Select the Avocados**: Start by choosing ripe avocados. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure. If they are too firm, let them ripen at room temperature for a few days. Once ripe, slice them in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh out with a spoon. 2. **Slice the Avocados**: Cut the avocado halves into slices or cubes, depending on your preference. I usually opt for slices as they look beautiful and are easy to layer in the salad. 3. **Prepare the Tomatoes**: Rinse the cherry tomatoes under cold water. Cut each tomato in half. This not only makes them easier to eat but also allows their juices to mingle with the other ingredients. 4. **Drain the Mozzarella**: If you’re using mozzarella balls packed in water, drain them well. You can also pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps prevent the salad from becoming watery. 5. **Tear the Basil**: Take fresh basil leaves and tear them into smaller pieces. This releases their aromatic oils and enhances the flavor of the salad. I love using a mix of whole leaves and torn pieces for a rustic look.

Assembling the Salad

6. **Combine the Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the sliced avocados, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves. Be careful not to mash the avocados; you want to keep them intact for a beautiful presentation. 7. **Prepare the Dressing**: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. I like to use a 3:2 ratio of oil to vinegar for a balanced flavor. You can adjust this based on your taste preference. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to the dressing. 8. **Dress the Salad**: Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture. Use a gentle hand to toss everything together, ensuring that the avocados and mozzarella are coated without breaking apart. I usually use my hands for this step, as it allows me to be more delicate.

Final Touches

9. **Taste and Adjust**: After tossing, taste the salad. This is the moment to adjust the seasoning. If it needs more salt or pepper, sprinkle it in and toss again. Sometimes, I like to add a little more balsamic vinegar for an extra tang. 10. **Serve Immediately**: This salad is best served fresh. Transfer it to a serving platter or individual bowls. If you want to make it ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent the avocados from browning.

Optional Additions

11. **Add Protein**: If you want to make this salad more filling, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. Simply cook your protein of choice and toss it in with the other ingredients. 12. **Incorporate Nuts**: For a bit of crunch, you can add toasted pine nuts or walnuts. Just toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until golden and fragrant, then sprinkle them over the salad. 13. **Experiment with Cheese**: If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, feel free to substitute with feta or goat cheese. Both add a delightful creaminess and tang that complements the other flavors beautifully. 14. **Add a Kick**: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This can elevate the flavor profile and add an exciting twist to the classic Caprese.

Storing Leftovers

15. **Refrigerate**: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, keep in mind that the avocados may brown slightly. To slow this process, you can squeeze a little lemon juice over the top before sealing. 16. **Use Within a Day**: For the best taste and texture, try to consume the salad within a day. The freshness of the ingredients is what makes this dish so delightful. 17. **Revive Leftovers**: If the salad has sat for a while and

Conclusion:

In summary, this Avocado Caprese Salad is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their salad game with fresh, vibrant flavors and a delightful combination of textures. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the juicy tomatoes and the rich mozzarella, all brought together by the fragrant basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of summer’s best produce! For serving suggestions, consider adding a sprinkle of pine nuts or walnuts for an extra crunch, or even a handful of arugula for a peppery kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the mozzarella for burrata for an indulgent twist, or add some grilled chicken or shrimp to turn it into a heartier meal. This salad is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed as a light lunch, a side dish at your next barbecue, or even as a refreshing appetizer for a dinner party. I encourage you to give this Avocado Caprese Salad a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you come up with! I’d love to hear how you made this recipe your own. Happy cooking! Print