Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4
Introduction
Avocado caprese salad recipe with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls is a fresh, colorful dish that brings together creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, tender mozzarella, and fragrant basil in one delicious bowl. Inspired by the classic Italian Caprese salad, this version adds buttery avocado for extra richness and texture.
Perfect for warm days, quick lunches, light dinners, or summer gatherings, this salad comes together in minutes without turning on the stove. A drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze ties everything together, creating a combination of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors that tastes as beautiful as it looks.
Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed on its own, this easy salad is guaranteed to become one of your favorites.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados, diced (300 g)
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved (225 g)
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (225 g)
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn (10 g)
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced (40 g, optional)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (30 ml)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar (15 ml)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (15 ml)
- ½ teaspoon salt (3 g)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (1 g)
How to Make Avocado Caprese Salad
- Prepare the ingredients.
Cut the avocados into bite-sized cubes. Halve the cherry tomatoes, drain the mozzarella balls, and slice the red onion if using. Tear the basil leaves into smaller pieces. - Make the dressing.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic glaze, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until well combined. - Assemble the salad.
Place the avocado, tomatoes, mozzarella balls, basil, and red onion in a large serving bowl. - Add the dressing.
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together. Be careful not to mash the avocado. - Serve immediately.
Finish with extra basil and an additional drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired. Enjoy right away for the freshest flavor.
Tips for the Best Caprese Salad
- Use ripe but firm avocados to keep the cubes intact.
- Fresh mozzarella pearls make serving easier and add a creamy texture.
- Fresh basil gives the salad its signature flavor.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed meal.
- Serve chilled for an extra refreshing summer dish.
FAQs
Can I use regular mozzarella instead of mozzarella balls?
Absolutely. Simply cut fresh mozzarella into bite-sized cubes.
How do I keep avocado from turning brown?
The lemon juice in the dressing helps slow oxidation and keeps the avocado looking fresh.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but it's best to add the avocado and dressing just before serving to maintain the best texture and color.
Serving Suggestions
This avocado Caprese salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, seafood, sandwiches, pasta dishes, or crusty bread. It also makes a refreshing side dish for barbecues, picnics, and summer dinners.
Final Thoughts
This avocado Caprese salad with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella is proof that simple ingredients can create incredible flavor. Fresh, creamy, and bursting with color, it's an easy recipe you'll want to make again and again throughout the year.