Spinach Caprese Salad Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the simple joy of throwing together a fresh and vibrant salad—especially when it’s packed with the goodness of ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and the unmistakable zing of basil drizzled with balsamic glaze. Let’s dive into a bowl of pure bliss! 🌿🍅🧀

I enjoy making colorful and healthy meals, and my Spinach Caprese Salad is a prime example. The fresh spinach leaves are loaded with vitamins and minerals; the juicy cherry tomatoes, which are coming into season, are so sweet; and the creamy mozzarella, which I could eat by the pound (and which makes this salad not-vegan), definitely provides the necessary contrast in texture.

The drizzle of balsamic glaze and olive oil (not much) takes it over the top.

Spinach Caprese Salad Recipe Ingredients

• Fresh Spinach Leaves: Packed with vitamins, iron, and fiber, great for eye health.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants, adds sweetness and tanginess, boosts heart health.
• Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein, adds creamy texture.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Provides aromatic flavor, contains anti-inflammatory properties.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats, enhances flavor, rich in antioxidants.
• Balsamic Glaze: Sweet and tangy, enhances dish depth, offers antioxidants.

Spinach Caprese Salad Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make this Spinach Caprese Salad Recipe

1. Wash the spinach leaves really well. After rinsing them, make sure they are dried thoroughly. Then, break them into pieces and put them in a big bowl.

2. Put the cherry tomatoes that have been cut in half into the bowl with the spinach.

3. Cut the fresh mozzarella cheese into rounds and arrange the slices over the spinach and tomatoes.

4. Rip the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces and distribute them over the salad.

5. Evenly drizzle the salad ingredients with extra-virgin olive oil.

6. Ensure even coverage across the salad by drizzling balsamic glaze on top.

7. Add salt to the salad until it is to your liking, and take care not to add too much.

8. Incorporate freshly ground black pepper to taste for an extra layer of flavor.

9. Use salad tongs or a similar utensil to gently toss the salad so that all ingredients mix evenly and the dressing is evenly distributed.

10. Immediacy is critical when serving the salad, as it is best served directly after tossing and mixing. That being said, the salad can also be served after it has been refrigerated for up to 30 minutes, which will not only reduce the temperature of the salad (which is a good thing because it will taste fresher), but will also allow the flavors to meld. But refrigerating the salad for 30 minutes is an optional step, not a required step.

Spinach Caprese Salad Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large bowl
2. Colander or strainer
3. Salad spinner or clean kitchen towel
4. Cutting board
5. Chef’s knife
6. Small knife or cheese knife
7. Salad tongs or serving utensils
8. Measuring cups and spoons
9. Pepper mill (for freshly ground black pepper)

FAQ

• Can I use another type of cheese instead of fresh mozzarella?Bocconcini or burrata can be used as substitutes, offering a similar creamy texture.
• What can I use if I don’t have balsamic glaze?Balsamic vinegar can be reduced to a thick syrup by simmering it over low to medium heat. Or, if you’re looking for a flavor profile that’s not quite so rich in a recipe, you can swap in a lighter, simpler balsamic vinegar for an easier, more straightforward taste.
• Is it okay to use dried basil instead of fresh?Basil in its freshest form is preferred for its intense flavor, but you can substitute about 1 teaspoon dried basil if that’s all you have.
• Can I prepare this salad in advance?You can serve it fresh, but it works decently well as a make-ahead item. You can prep the ingredients a few hours ahead of time and assemble them later.
• How do I make the salad suitable for vegans?Substitute a cheese alternative made from plants for mozzarella, or just leave it out.
• Should I wash the spinach before using?Indeed, rinsing and drying spinach leaves to eliminate any soil is always a good practice.

Spinach Caprese Salad Recipe Substitutions and Variations

You can replace fresh spinach leaves with mixed baby greens or arugula in any recipe. Just keep in mind that these alternatives will change the flavor profile of your dish.
Grape tomatoes or heirloom tomatoes can be used in place of cherry tomatoes for taste and color variety.
Burrata cheese can be used instead of fresh mozzarella for a creamy texture. Goat cheese can be used instead of fresh mozzarella for a tangy twist.
Fresh basil leaves can be swapped out for fresh oregano or fresh mint leaves for a distinctive aromatic flavor.
A simple reduction of balsamic vinegar can be used in place of balsamic glaze, as can a drizzle of honey. The latter two options are good to have on hand when balsamic glaze isn’t readily available.

Pro Tips

1. Dry the Spinach Completely After washing the spinach, make sure you dry it thoroughly using a salad spinner or a clean kitchen towel. Excess moisture can make the salad soggy and dilute the flavors.

2. Freshness Matters Use the freshest ingredients possible, especially the spinach and basil. Freshness will enhance the taste and texture of the salad, making it more vibrant and enjoyable.

3. Cut Cheese with Dental Floss To get clean and even slices of fresh mozzarella, use unflavored dental floss instead of a knife. This method ensures perfect slices without squishing the cheese.

4. Balance with Acid If you find the salad is too rich from the mozzarella and olive oil, consider adding a few drops of lemon juice for a touch of acidity to balance the flavors.

5. Experiment with Add-ins For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds for some crunch, or a splash of white wine vinegar for added tang.