Looking for a refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer? Look no further than this delightful Peach Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction! Bursting with the sweet juiciness of ripe peaches, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, this Italian-inspired salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a tantalizing treat for your taste buds. With just a few simple ingredients and a mere 15 minutes of your time, you can create a stunning appetizer or side dish that will impress your guests and elevate any meal. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to bring a touch of gourmet flair to your dining table!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup balsamic reduction
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the peaches by washing them thoroughly and patting dry with paper towels.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the ripe peaches into thin, even rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick. Remove any bruised or damaged areas.
- Slice the fresh mozzarella into similar-sized rounds, ensuring they are of uniform thickness to create an attractive presentation.
- Gently wash the fresh basil leaves and pat them dry. If the leaves are large, tear them into smaller, more manageable pieces.
- On a clean serving platter, arrange the peach and mozzarella slices in an alternating, overlapping pattern to create an elegant design.
- Scatter the fresh basil leaves over the arranged peaches and mozzarella, distributing them evenly across the salad.
- Drizzle the prepared balsamic reduction generously over the salad, ensuring each slice receives a coating of the rich, sweet sauce.
- Sprinkle a small amount of salt and freshly ground black pepper over the salad to enhance the flavors.
- Let the salad rest for 2-3 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve immediately as a refreshing appetizer or light summer side dish.
Tips
- Choose the Right Peaches: For the best flavor, select ripe peaches that yield slightly to pressure. Avoid any that are overly soft or have blemishes.
- Uniform Slicing: To achieve a beautiful presentation, slice both the peaches and mozzarella into even rounds. This not only looks great but ensures a balanced bite of flavors.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest mozzarella and basil you can find, as their vibrant flavors are key to elevating this salad.
- Balsamic Reduction: If you don’t have a pre-made balsamic reduction, you can easily make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens to a syrupy consistency.
- Resting Time: Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes after assembling. This helps the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall taste experience.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this salad as a light appetizer or alongside grilled meats for a delightful summer meal. It also pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 258kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 13g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 32mg
