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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

  • Small saucepan
  • Spoon
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Serving bowl

Method
 

  1. Add the balsamic vinegar to a small saucepan and place it over low heat.
  2. Bring it to a gentle simmer and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until reduced by about half and slightly thickened.
  3. If using honey, stir it into the balsamic during the final minute of cooking, then remove the saucepan from heat.
  4. Set the reduction aside to cool slightly.
  5. In a serving bowl, add the berries, basil leaves, and sliced cheddar.
  6. Drizzle the warm balsamic reduction over the salad just before serving.

Notes

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