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Caprese Berries Basil Salad

This salad combines fresh basil leaves with juicy berries and slices of sharp cheddar cheese, drizzled with balsamic reduction. The ingredients are assembled in layers, resulting in a light, colorful dish with contrasting textures of soft fruit, crisp basil, and creamy cheese.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries) washed and dried
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese sliced into thin strips
  • 1 bunch fresh basil leaves whole leaves, washed
  • 0.5 cup balsamic vinegar for reduction
  • 1 tbsp honey optional, for sweeter balsamic

Equipment

  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Small saucepan
  • Serving platter

Method
 

  1. Combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture reduces by half and thickens into a syrupy consistency, approximately 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
    0.5 cup balsamic vinegar, 1 tbsp honey
  2. Arrange fresh basil leaves on a large serving platter, creating a bed for the other ingredients. Use a sharp knife and cutting board to thinly slice the sharp cheddar cheese into strips. Place the cheese evenly across the basil leaves.
    1 bunch fresh basil leaves, 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
  3. Scatter the washed berries over the basil and cheese layers, distributing them evenly for a colorful presentation. The berries should be plump and vibrant, adding sweetness and visual appeal.
    1 cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
  4. Drizzle the balsamic reduction over the assembled salad, allowing it to seep into the layers and coat the ingredients evenly. The glaze should be glossy and slightly thickened, contrasting with the fresh ingredients.
    0.5 cup balsamic vinegar
  5. Garnish the dish with additional basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately as a light appetizer or snack, enjoying the fragrant herbs, sweet berries, and tangy glaze together.
    1 bunch fresh basil leaves

Notes

For an extra touch, add a sprinkle of coarse sea salt or cracked black pepper before serving.