The Art of Simplicity: Fresh Mozzarella and Strawberry Salad

There’s a unique magic in dishes that require minimal effort yet deliver maximum impact, and this Fresh Mozzarella and Strawberry Salad is a prime example. I first encountered a version of this salad years ago at a small trattoria overlooking the Italian countryside, the air alive with the scent of blooming jasmine and ripe fruit. It was a revelation – a symphony of sweet, tangy, creamy, and bright flavors that felt both utterly familiar and delightfully new. The simplicity of the ingredients, allowed to shine in their purest form, spoke volumes about the power of quality produce and thoughtful presentation. It’s a dish that embodies the essence of al fresco dining, a perfect prelude to a leisurely meal or a light, refreshing indulgence on its own.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 4 servings
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh mozzarella cheese, (approximately 2 balls), sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2-4 teaspoons balsamic vinegar

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Salad or dessert plates for serving

Instructions

The beauty of this salad lies in its unfussy preparation, allowing the peak freshness of its components to take center stage.

1. Begin by preparing the fresh mozzarella. Gently slice the cheese into uniform, 1/2-inch thick rounds. The goal is to have slices that are substantial enough to appreciate their creamy texture but not so thick that they overwhelm the other elements of the salad.
2. Arrange these mozzarella slices on your chosen salad or dessert plates. Overlap them slightly to create an appealing visual, reminiscent of overlapping flower petals or delicate scales. This layering adds an elegant touch without being overly fussy. Once plated, place the mozzarella-adorned plates into the refrigerator. This chilling step is crucial, as it firms up the cheese slightly and ensures it remains cool and refreshing when served.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the hulled and quartered fresh strawberries with the 1 tablespoon of sugar. Gently toss them together. This simple step helps to coax out the natural juices from the strawberries, creating a slightly syrupy, intensely flavored fruit component. Let this mixture sit and meld for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the sugar to work its magic, softening the strawberries and infusing them with a delicate sweetness, while also creating a light, natural syrup.
4. Just before you’re ready to serve, retrieve the chilled mozzarella plates from the refrigerator.
5. Next, spoon the sugared strawberries, along with their accumulated juices, alongside the arranged mozzarella on each plate. Distribute the berries and their luscious syrup evenly.
6. Now, it’s time for the final flourishes. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over both the mozzarella and the strawberries. Aim for a generous but not overwhelming amount, ensuring each component gets a light coating.
7. Follow this with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. Start with 2 teaspoons and add up to 4 teaspoons, depending on your preference for tanginess. The balsamic vinegar provides a sharp, complex counterpoint to the sweetness of the strawberries and the creaminess of the mozzarella.
8. Serve immediately. This salad is best enjoyed when its components are at their freshest, the mozzarella chilled, and the strawberries vibrant.

Expert Tips & Tricks

To elevate this simple salad from good to extraordinary, consider these chef-inspired nuances:

• Quality is Key: With so few ingredients, their quality is paramount. Seek out the freshest, creamiest fresh mozzarella you can find – preferably from a local cheesemonger. Likewise, choose plump, fragrant strawberries at their peak ripeness for the most vibrant flavor and aroma.
• The Art of the Drizzle: When drizzling the olive oil and balsamic vinegar, use a steady hand. A good quality extra virgin olive oil with a fruity aroma will enhance the salad, and a thick, syrupy balsamic glaze can be used for an even more intense flavor and visually striking effect, though the recipe specifically calls for standard balsamic vinegar.
• Temperature Matters: Ensuring the mozzarella is well-chilled is essential for textural contrast. If you’re in a hurry, you can place the sliced mozzarella on a plate in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes before arranging it on the serving plates.
• Strawberry Sugar Bath: The 30-minute maceration period for the strawberries isn’t just about sweetening them; it’s about creating a natural syrup that bridges the gap between the fruit and the cheese. Don’t skip this step! The amount of sugar can be adjusted slightly based on the sweetness of your strawberries, but aim to start with the specified tablespoon.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This salad is designed to be an immediate delight, best served right after assembly to capture the full vibrancy of its flavors and textures.

• Serving: Present this salad on elegant plates as a sophisticated appetizer for a dinner party, a light lunch, or even a refreshing dessert. A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves or a few toasted pine nuts can add an extra layer of complexity and visual appeal, though they are not part of the core recipe.
• Storage: Due to the fresh, uncooked nature of the ingredients, this salad is not meant for leftovers. It’s best to assemble only what you plan to consume immediately. If you happen to have any remnants, they will not store well. The mozzarella can become tough, and the strawberries will become overly soft and watery.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	617 kcal
Calories from Fat	473 kcal
Total Fat	52.6 g	80%
Saturated Fat	18.7 g	93%
Cholesterol	89.7 mg	29%
Sodium	714.2 mg	29%
Total Carbohydrate	11.6 g	3%
Dietary Fiber	1.4 g	5%
Sugars	8.2 g	32%
Protein	25.7 g	51%

Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities used.

Variations & Substitutions

While the classic combination is divine, feel free to explore subtle enhancements:

• Herbal Notes: For a fragrant twist, finely chop a few fresh basil leaves and scatter them over the salad just before serving. The peppery, slightly sweet notes of basil are a classic pairing with both strawberries and mozzarella.
• Nutty Crunch: A small scattering of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds can add a delightful textural contrast to the creamy mozzarella and soft strawberries.
• Berry Swap: While strawberries are iconic, other soft berries like raspberries or blackberries could be used, though their sweetness and acidity profiles will differ. For a more complex flavor, consider a mix of berries.
• Balsamic Glaze: If you prefer a sweeter, more concentrated balsamic flavor, you could substitute a good quality balsamic glaze for some or all of the balsamic vinegar.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I prepare the strawberries and mozzarella ahead of time?
A: You can hull and quarter the strawberries and toss them with sugar up to an hour ahead of time and refrigerate. However, slice the mozzarella just before assembling the salad for the best texture.

Q: Is this salad suitable for a light lunch?
A: Absolutely! It’s a wonderfully light and refreshing option for a summer lunch, especially when paired with some crusty bread.

Q: What kind of balsamic vinegar should I use?
A: A good quality, aged balsamic vinegar will offer the best flavor. Avoid overly acidic or thin balsamic vinegars.

Q: Can I add other fruits to this salad?
A: While the recipe is designed for strawberries, you could experiment with other soft, complementary fruits like raspberries or a few slices of ripe peach.

Q: How do I make the balsamic vinegar more intense?
A: For a more intense flavor, you can reduce the balsamic vinegar gently in a small saucepan over low heat until slightly thickened. However, the recipe as written is designed for a straightforward drizzle.

Final Thoughts

This Fresh Mozzarella and Strawberry Salad is a testament to the idea that sometimes, the most profound culinary experiences come from embracing simplicity. It’s a dish that whispers of sunny afternoons and effortless elegance, a reminder to savor the beauty of fresh, seasonal ingredients. I encourage you to try this recipe, to taste the harmony of sweet berries, creamy cheese, and tangy vinegar. It’s a dish that’s not just eaten, but experienced. Imagine it gracing your table, a vibrant splash of color and flavor, perhaps accompanied by a chilled glass of Prosecco or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. Share it with loved ones, or savor it as a moment of personal indulgence. I’m eager to hear about your creations!