Heart Caprese Salad Balsamic (Printable Version)
A romantic twist highlighting heart-shaped mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a sweet balsamic drizzle.
# What You Need:
→ Produce
01 - 4 medium ripe tomatoes
02 - 1 cup fresh basil leaves
→ Dairy
03 - 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
→ Pantry
04 - 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
05 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
→ Balsamic Glaze
06 - 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
07 - 1 tbsp honey
# How-To Steps:
01 - Combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until reduced by half and syrupy consistency is achieved, approximately 5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely before using.
02 - Slice tomatoes and mozzarella into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Press a heart-shaped cookie cutter firmly into each slice to create uniform heart shapes. Reserve any trimmings for another use.
03 - Arrange heart-shaped tomato and mozzarella slices on a serving platter, alternating and slightly overlapping each piece. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the layered hearts for visual appeal and fresh aroma.
04 - Drizzle extra-virgin olive oil evenly over the arranged salad. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the tomatoes and cheese.
05 - Complete the dish by drizzling the cooled balsamic glaze in an attractive pattern over the salad. Serve immediately while ingredients are at peak freshness and the glaze retains its glossy finish.
# Helpful Tips:
01 -
- It takes barely 25 minutes from start to finish but looks absolutely stunning on the plate
- The heart shapes make everyone smile before they even take a bite
- That homemade balsamic glaze elevates everything from good to unforgettable
02 -
- The glaze thickens considerably as it cools so don't overcook it or you'll end up with balsamic candy
- Room temperature ingredients matter here cold mozzarella won't release its flavors the same way
- Work quickly once you start assembling the tomatoes start releasing water as they sit
03 -
- Pat your tomato and mozzarella hearts gently with paper towels before assembling to prevent a watery salad
- If your cookie cutter sticks try dipping it in warm water between cuts