The fresh combination of ripe tomatoes, juicy blueberries, and creamy mozzarella makes this Berry Caprese Salad an instant crowd-pleaser. Light, colorful, and festive, it’s an ideal red, white, and blue appetizer or side for summer barbecues and holiday gatherings.
“This recipe is delicious, and it’s also fun and festive!”
-Becky
The vibrant colors and simple design make this salad perfect for picnics, backyard get-togethers, or patriotic holidays like the Fourth of July and Memorial Day. A drizzle of balsamic and a sprinkling of fresh basil elevate the flavors while keeping the dish bright and summery.
If you’re planning a full menu, serve it with other summer favorites such as Chicken Salad with Grapes, smoky Smoked Jalapeño Poppers, or tender Slow Cooker Ribs. Finish the meal with a refreshing Shirley Temple for a fun, fizzy touch.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients You Will Need
- Variations
- How to Make Berry Caprese Salad
- Expert Tips
- Recipe FAQ’s
- More Easy Side Dish Recipes
- Berry Caprese Salad Recipe
Ingredients You Will Need
- Cherry tomatoes – Halved to bring bright red, juicy flavor.
- Fresh blueberries – A playful blue element that adds sweetness and texture.
- Mozzarella cheese – Use firm block-style mozzarella for cutting festive shapes.
- Fresh basil (about ¼ cup) – Torn and sprinkled for an aromatic, herbaceous finish.
- Balsamic vinegar (3 tablespoons) – Adds tang and balances the fruit’s sweetness.
- 1″–1.5″ star cookie cutter – Optional, for cutting mozzarella into star shapes.
You’ll find the full ingredient list and step-by-step instructions in the printable recipe card below.
Variations
- Add other fruit: Sliced strawberries or small watermelon cubes brighten the salad and add more color.
- Swap the dressing: Replace balsamic vinegar with balsamic glaze for a sweeter finish, or add a touch of honey to the dressing for extra sweetness.
How to Make Berry Caprese Salad
Start by rinsing and gently drying the cherry tomatoes and blueberries. If you’re prepping ahead, washing your produce now saves time later.
- Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and place them in a serving bowl. Add the blueberries and gently toss to combine.
- Tear the basil leaves and sprinkle them over the tomatoes and blueberries. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, season with salt and pepper, and gently toss.
- Slice the mozzarella into ¼–½ inch slabs. Use a star-shaped cutter (or any small cutter) to create cheese shapes—this is an easy and fun step to include kids.
- Arrange the mozzarella stars over the salad and serve immediately for the best texture and presentation.
Expert Tips
- Choose firm, fresh mozzarella: Block-style cheese holds its shape better when cutting shapes.
- Prep ahead: Mix the tomatoes, berries, and basil a few hours before serving; add the cheese right before plating to keep it fresh.
- Pick ripe tomatoes: Juicier tomatoes give more sweetness and better overall flavor.
- Basil handling: Tear basil leaves instead of chopping to avoid bruising and retain a fresh look.
Recipe FAQ’s
Yes. Prepare the tomato, blueberry, and basil mixture up to a few hours in advance. Add the mozzarella shapes just before serving to keep them fresh and firm.
Block-style mozzarella is best for cutting shapes. Avoid pre-sliced or shredded varieties for this presentation.
Absolutely. Grape tomatoes work well and can be halved or quartered depending on size.
More Easy Side Dish Recipes
Holidays
Holiday Sliders
Appetizers
Pizza Cupcakes
Meals
Cabbage Roll Soup
Meals
Beanie Weenies
If you try this recipe or others from Celebrating Simply, please leave a star rating and share your thoughts in the comments. Your feedback is appreciated!
Berry Caprese Salad
Equipment
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Mixing Bowl
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Star Cutter (optional)
Ingredients
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes
- 1 pint fresh blueberries
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese
- 1 bunch fresh basil
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Rinse and pat dry the cherry tomatoes and blueberries.
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Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and place in a serving bowl. Add the blueberries and gently toss.
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Tear basil and sprinkle over the fruit. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, season with salt and pepper, and toss gently.
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Slice mozzarella into ¼–½ inch slabs and cut shapes with a small cookie cutter if desired.
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Arrange the mozzarella on top and serve immediately.
Notes
- Firm mozzarella: Use block-style cheese for cleaner cuts and better presentation.
- Make-ahead: Prep the tomato, berry, and basil mix ahead of time and add cheese just before serving.
- Tomato choice: Ripe, juicy tomatoes give the best flavor.
- Basil tip: Tear leaves to keep them vibrant and avoid bruising.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Protein: 8 g
Fat: 12 g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.