Go Back
caprese salad recipe
Nancy

Caprese Salad Recipe

This refreshing twist on a classic Caprese salad adds juicy citrus fruits for a sweet, tangy upgrade. The combo of mandarins, navels, and Cara Cara oranges brings vibrant color and flavor, perfectly balancing the creamy mozzarella and rich balsamic glaze. Ideal for summer gatherings, light lunches, or even an elegant starter, this salad delivers both freshness and flair with every bite.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 3
Course: Salad
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved: Use ripe, firm tomatoes for the best juicy crunch and color.
  • 3 Poppies Mandarins peeled and diced: These are naturally sweet and add citrus brightness. Avoid canned mandarins for texture reasons.
  • 1 Kings River Navel orange peeled and diced: Adds a juicy burst with a mild tang; peel cleanly to avoid bitterness.
  • 1 Kings River Cara Cara orange peeled and diced: Cara Caras are slightly sweeter and pinker in tone—great for color contrast.
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls: Use fresh mozzarella not shredded or block cheese—it gives the salad a smooth, rich texture.
  • 1 –2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Choose high-quality olive oil for the best flavor—don’t substitute with vegetable oil.
  • 1 –2 tbsp balsamic glaze: Use glaze not vinegar; it’s thicker and provides a rich, sweet finish.
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish: Adds a peppery, aromatic bite—tear leaves by hand for best texture.

Method
 

  1. Begin by washing all your fruits and cherry tomatoes. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half for a burst of color and juice in each bite. Peel the mandarins, Cara Cara, and Navel oranges, then dice them into bite-sized pieces. Try to remove as much of the white pith as possible—it can add bitterness.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced citrus fruits, and fresh mozzarella pearls. Mix gently using a spoon or clean hands. Be careful not to mash the fruit—your goal is a soft mix where each flavor still stands out.
  3. Transfer the salad to a serving platter, spreading it out for a nice color presentation. Drizzle the olive oil over the top, followed by the balsamic glaze. You can go light or generous depending on your taste. Finish with fresh basil leaves to bring the whole dish to life. Serve chilled for best flavor.