Tropical Caprese Salad

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 4
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This Tropical Caprese Salad is a fresh twist on the classic Italian favorite, bursting with vibrant colors and flavors. Perfect for summer, it brings together the unexpected sweetness of mango and the creamy richness of avocado.

Ingredients for Tropical Caprese Salad

Mangoes: These add a juicy sweetness that complements the savory elements. Choose ones that are ripe but firm to maintain structure in the salad.

Avocado: Adds a creamy texture and subtle flavor, balancing the brightness of the mango.

Fresh mozzarella: Soft and creamy, it provides a mild, milky flavor that ties the ingredients together.

Basil leaves: Fresh basil adds an aromatic note that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Extra virgin olive oil: This is used to drizzle over the salad, adding a rich, fruity undertone.

Balsamic glaze: Its tangy sweetness contrasts beautifully with the other ingredients.

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper: These seasonings elevate the flavors, bringing out the best in each ingredient.

Tips & Tricks

  • For the best flavor, use mangoes that are in season.
  • If you prefer a little more tang, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving.
  • Chill the salad for about 15 minutes before serving for a refreshing experience.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled seafood or chicken. It's also a great side dish for a tropical-themed barbecue. For a light meal, serve it with a crusty baguette.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, burrata can be a creamy alternative to mozzarella if you want something even richer.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The avocado may brown slightly, but it will still taste good.

Tropical Caprese Salad Recipe Walkthrough

Start by slicing the mangoes. Aim for slices that are thick enough to hold their shape but still easy to bite into. Arrange them on a large platter, leaving some space between each piece.

Next, slice the avocado and nestle the slices between the mangoes. The goal is to create an alternating pattern that looks inviting.

Now, take your fresh mozzarella and cut it into slices that are similar in size to the mango and avocado. Tuck these slices in between the fruit layers.

Scatter basil leaves around the salad. Not only do they add flavor, but they also make the dish look lively.

Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze evenly over the entire salad. This step is crucial as it ties all the flavors together.

Finally, finish with a sprinkle of sea salt and a few cracks of freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust if necessary.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • A refreshing spin on the traditional Caprese, ideal for warm days.
  • Minimal ingredients with maximum flavor impact.
  • Quick and easy to assemble, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
  • Visually stunning — sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced
1 ripe avocado, sliced
8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic glaze
1/4 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Arrange mango slices and avocado slices alternately on a large platter.
2. Interleave slices of fresh mozzarella between the mango and avocado.
3. Tuck fresh basil leaves around the slices for garnish.
4. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze evenly over the salad.
5. Sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

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