Peach Caprese Salad Recipe
If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant twist on a classic Italian favorite, you’re in for a real treat with this Peach Caprese Salad Recipe. It beautifully combines the sweetness of ripe peaches with the creamy richness of mozzarella and the aromatic burst of fresh basil, all finished with a tangy balsamic glaze that elevates every bite. This salad is not just a feast for the eyes but also a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will quickly become one of your go-to dishes during warm weather or whenever you crave something light yet satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Putting together this Peach Caprese Salad Recipe requires just a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that shine on their own but come alive when combined. Each element plays a key role in delivering the overall harmony of taste and texture that makes this dish so irresistible.
- Peaches: Choose ripe but firm peaches or nectarines for sweetness and juicy texture.
- Roma tomatoes: Their firm flesh and mild acidity perfectly complement the peaches.
- Mozzarella balls: Creamy and soft, these add that classic Caprese feel to the salad.
- Fresh basil: Chopped generously for a fragrant, herbal note that ties everything together.
- Olive oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil brings richness and smoothness.
- Red wine vinegar: Or apple cider vinegar, to add a light tang and brighten the flavors.
- Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of all ingredients.
- Garlic powder: Provides a subtle kick without overpowering the salad.
- Red pepper flakes: Just a pinch for a gentle heat that contrasts nicely with the sweetness.
- Prosciutto (optional): Thin slices add a savory, salty dimension if you want a meaty twist.
- Balsamic glaze: The crowning touch, adding sweetness and acidity in one luscious drizzle.
How to Make Peach Caprese Salad Recipe
Step 1: Chop the Fruit and Veggies
Start by dicing your peaches (or nectarines) into bite-sized pieces, making sure they are roughly the same size as your chopped roma tomatoes. This balance ensures every forkful delivers an even mix of sweet, juicy fruit and bright, tangy tomato.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, your choice of vinegar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Give it a thorough stir or shake, then taste and adjust seasoning to suit your palate. This simple vinaigrette is the magic glue that draws all the ingredients together.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large serving bowl, toss the diced peaches, tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and freshly chopped basil. Pour the prepared dressing over the top and gently mix to coat every delicious chunk. If you’re using prosciutto, arrange it in thin layers around or on top of the salad for an added savory burst.
Step 4: Drizzle With Balsamic Glaze
Finish your Peach Caprese Salad Recipe with a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze. This step adds a luscious touch of sweetness and acidity that makes every bite sing and beautifully enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
How to Serve Peach Caprese Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For a stunning presentation, sprinkle a few whole basil leaves on top or add a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper right before serving. A few toasted pine nuts can also provide an irresistible crunch if you want to experiment with texture.
Side Dishes
This salad is a delightful companion to grilled chicken, crusty artisan bread, or even a light seafood dish like shrimp skewers. Its refreshing qualities make it perfect for summer picnics, dinners, or an elegant appetizer for gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering ingredients in a tall glass jar for a beautiful, mason-jar-style salad. Alternatively, arrange the peaches and tomatoes in neat concentric circles on a platter, nestle mozzarella balls in between, and scatter basil all over before drizzling dressing—you’ll have an eye-catching centerpiece that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Since the salad contains fresh fruit and cheese, it’s best eaten within 1 to 2 days to enjoy the optimal freshness and texture. Keep dressing separate if possible to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
Due to the fresh peaches, tomatoes, and mozzarella, freezing this Peach Caprese Salad Recipe is not recommended. Freezing would compromise the texture and flavor, turning it mushy and watery upon thawing.
Reheating
This salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary and not advised. Simply take it out of the fridge a bit before serving to let it come to room temperature for the best flavors.
FAQs
Can I substitute nectarines for peaches in this salad?
Absolutely! Nectarines work wonderfully and offer similar sweetness and juiciness, making them a perfect alternative in this Peach Caprese Salad Recipe.
Is there a vegan version of this salad?
Yes! Simply swap out the mozzarella balls for a plant-based cheese alternative or use marinated tofu cubes, and you’ll still get the creamy richness without dairy.
What can I use instead of balsamic glaze?
If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can make a quick reduction of balsamic vinegar by simmering it down until thickened, or use a bit of honey with regular balsamic vinegar for a sweet-tangy drizzle.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead, but it’s best to toss everything together just before serving to keep the peaches and tomatoes fresh and prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
Is prosciutto necessary for this recipe?
Not at all! Prosciutto is an optional addition that adds a salty, savory contrast, but the salad is delicious and complete on its own without it.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the way fresh ingredients come together in this Peach Caprese Salad Recipe to create a dish that feels both luxurious and simple. Whether you’re making it for a casual lunch or to impress guests at a dinner party, the bright colors and fresh flavors never fail to put a smile on everyone’s face. I can’t encourage you enough to give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite go-to salads this season!
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Peach Caprese Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This refreshing Peach Caprese Salad combines juicy peaches and ripe roma tomatoes with creamy mozzarella balls, fresh basil, and a tangy olive oil and vinegar dressing. Topped with optional prosciutto and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, this salad is perfect as a light meal or a flavorful side dish, ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Salad
- 4 peaches, diced (or nectarines)
- 3 roma tomatoes, diced
- ½ cup mozzarella balls
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- â…“ cup prosciutto (optional)
Dressing
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
Topping
- 2–3 Tbsp balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Prepare fruits and vegetables: Chop the roma tomatoes and peaches (or nectarines) into equal-sized, bite-sized pieces to ensure each bite has a perfect balance of flavors.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed to achieve a tangy and slightly spicy dressing.
- Assemble the salad: In a large serving bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, peaches, mozzarella balls, and chopped fresh basil. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Add prosciutto and balsamic glaze: Arrange the prosciutto slices around the top of the salad, if using, for a savory contrast. Finish by drizzling 2-3 tablespoons of balsamic glaze over the entire salad to add sweetness and depth of flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute nectarines for peaches if preferred.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the prosciutto.
- Balsamic glaze can be found in most grocery stores or homemade by reducing balsamic vinegar until thickened.
- This salad is best served immediately but can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours before serving.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
