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Fresh Nectarine Caprese Salad with Easy Homemade Balsamic Glaze

Fresh Nectarine Caprese Salad - featured image
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A fresh and light twist on the classic Caprese salad using juicy nectarines instead of tomatoes, paired with creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a tangy-sweet homemade balsamic glaze.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3–4 medium nectarines, ripe but firm
  • 8 oz (about 225g) fresh mozzarella balls or sliced mozzarella
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves, washed and dried
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Pour 1/2 cup (120 ml) of balsamic vinegar into a medium saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon of honey or brown sugar.
  2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces by about half and thickens to a syrupy consistency (about 10-12 minutes). Be careful not to burn it.
  3. Remove the glaze from the heat and let it cool to room temperature; it will thicken further as it cools.
  4. While the glaze is reducing, slice the nectarines into thin wedges about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick. Peel if desired.
  5. Slice the fresh mozzarella into pieces roughly the same size as the nectarine slices.
  6. On a large serving plate, alternate slices of nectarine and mozzarella, slightly overlapping them in a circle or linear pattern.
  7. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the slices, distributing them evenly.
  8. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over the salad, then season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  9. Drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze generously over the top, letting it pool slightly at the edges.
  10. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to one hour before serving to let flavors mingle.

Notes

If balsamic glaze is too thick after cooling, stir in a teaspoon of warm water to loosen before drizzling. Use firm but ripe nectarines for best texture. Fresh basil is essential for flavor. The glaze can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for up to a week.

Nutrition

Keywords: nectarine caprese salad, balsamic glaze, fresh mozzarella, summer salad, easy salad recipe, vegetarian, gluten-free

Find it online: https://siennaspoon.com/fresh-nectarine-caprese-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-balsamic-glaze/