Easy Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze and Grilled Chicken
Our guest on Cooking with Milwaukee Community Leaders is Lynda Welsh, President/CEO at SHARP Literacy. Lynda has won many awards, including the Milwaukee Business Journal 40 Under 40 and Women of Influence. She shows us how to make her easy Caprese Salad with Grilled Chicken and Balsamic Glaze.
You can also listen to the podcast version of this interview and cooking episode –
Easy Caprese Salad
A Caprese salad is the essence of simplicity and elegance. It’s an Italian classic that requires only a handful of fresh ingredients. They include Fresh tomatoes, Fresh mozzarella, Fresh basil leaves, Balsamic glaze, salt, and fresh black pepper. Here’s how to assemble an easy and delicious version.
Steps for Easy Caprese Salad:
- Fresh tomatoes (like cherry tomatoes, ripe Roma or heirloom varieties)
- Fresh mozzarella (preferably buffalo mozzarella)
- Fresh basil leaves, to use as a base and garnish
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- Balsamic glaze (optional, but adds a touch of sweetness)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Focaccia Bread on the side
- Layer It Up: Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices on a plate in an alternating pattern (like tomato, mozzarella, tomato). Tuck basil leaves in between the layers for vibrant pops of green.
- Drizzle & Season: Drizzle generously with olive oil and, if you like, a balsamic glaze.
- Sprinkle with salt and black pepper to taste.
- It’s simple yet flavorful, letting the quality of the ingredients shine through.
Origins of the Easy Caprese Salad
The Caprese salad, or Insalata Caprese, originates from the island of Capri in Italy. This iconic dish is made with fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes. It also includes basil leaves, olive oil, and a touch of salt. Its vibrant colors—red, white, and green—are said to represent the Italian flag.
The Caprese salad’s history dates back to the early 20th century. Some stories suggest it was created as a tribute to Italian patriotism. Others believe it was designed to cater to the tastes of vacationing royalty and political figures. Over time, it has become a beloved staple of Italian cuisine, celebrated for its fresh and harmonious flavors
What are some variations of Easy Caprese Salad?
Caprese salad lends itself very well to creativity! But a word to the wise, stick with the classic version if you are having Italians over for dinner.
Here are some variations to jazz up the classic recipe:
1. Fruit Treat:
- Add slices of juicy peaches or nectarines for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Try strawberries or watermelon for a summery vibe.
2. Grilled Goodness:
- Grill the tomatoes slightly for a smoky flavor.
- Pair with grilled halloumi instead of mozzarella for a firmer texture.
3. Protein-Packed Easy Caprese Salad:
- Toss in prosciutto slices or thinly sliced smoked salmon for a touch of luxury.
- Add cooked quinoa or chickpeas for extra heartiness.
4. Dressing Delight:
- Swap the olive oil with basil pesto for an herbaceous kick.
- Use a tangy lemon vinaigrette instead of balsamic glaze for a zesty spin.
5. Greens Galore:
- Mix arugula or spinach into the salad for added greenery and bite.
- Create a Caprese pasta salad by adding cooked pasta like penne or fusilli.
6. Cheese Swap:
- Substitute mozzarella with burrata for creamy decadence.
- Try feta or goat cheese for an extra sharp and tangy flavor profile.
Easy Caprese Salad with Grilled Chicken
Materials
- 25 fresh basil leaves torn
- 2 lbs cherry or grape tomatoes mixed variety
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls small
- 3 grilled chicken breasts cut into strips
- ¾ cup Balsamic vinegar for glaze
- Salt & Pepper to taste
Instructions
How to Make Balsamic Glaze
- Add the balsamic vinegar to a small saucepan. Heat to a gentle boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 10 minutes or until reduced by half. Remove from heat and let cool.
Instructions for Caprese Salad
- Tear basil leaves and lay a foundation as the base of the salad.
- Add the tomatoes to a plate, cutting the larger ones
- Add the fresh mozzarella and more basil on top.
- Season with salt & pepper
- Add the Grilled Chicken Strips
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze
- Serve with Fresh Focaccia Bread
Video
Nutrition
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We were featured in a Redfin article! Check it out here: Designing the Perfect Kitchen for Home Cooks
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Easy salad to make, a great salad for a crowd.
Looks fantastic Charlie!