Description
A refreshing and vibrant Strawberry Salad with Balsamic reduction that combines sweet strawberries, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, ripe avocado, toasted pecans, and fresh basil, all brought together with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Perfect for a light, nutritious meal or an elegant side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Balsamic Reduction
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
For the Salad
- 1 cup sliced strawberries
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup halved mini mozzarella balls
- 1 ripe avocado, pitted and diced
- ⅓ cup pecans, toasted
- ⅓ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Make the Balsamic Reduction: In a small saucepan, bring the balsamic vinegar to a high simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally, then reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer gently until the vinegar has thickened and reduced by half, approximately 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Assemble the Salad: In a shallow bowl or platter, combine the sliced strawberries, halved cherry tomatoes, halved mini mozzarella balls, diced avocado, toasted pecans, and torn fresh basil leaves.
- Dress and Toss: Drizzle the salad ingredients with extra-virgin olive oil. Season generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Gently toss all the ingredients to combine evenly without breaking the avocado.
- Serve with Balsamic Drizzle: Drizzle the cooled balsamic reduction over the salad just before serving to add a tangy sweetness that complements the fresh flavors beautifully.
Notes
- Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Use ripe but firm avocados to avoid mushy texture.
- You can prepare the balsamic reduction ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- This salad is best served fresh to maintain the texture of the avocado and freshness of the greens.
- For a vegan option, substitute mozzarella with vegan cheese or omit it altogether.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
