This red, white, and blue caprese salad brings a fresh, patriotic twist to the classic Italian dish. By combining sweet blueberries, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese stars, and fragrant basil, this salad is not only delicious but also perfect for Memorial Day, the 4th of July, or any celebration. The addition of balsamic vinegar and olive oil enhances the flavor, making this a simple yet elegant side dish.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 pint blueberries

• 2 pints cherry tomatoes

• Fresh basil

• Balsamic vinegar

• Olive oil

• Salt and pepper

• Firm buffalo mozzarella cheese

Directions

1. Wash the blueberries and cherry tomatoes, draining them well in a colander. Half the cherry tomatoes and toss them with the blueberries in a serving bowl. Set aside.

2. Slice the mozzarella cheese into ¼ or ½ inch slices. Use a small metal star cookie cutter to cut out star shapes from the cheese.

3. Top the tomatoes and blueberries with the mozzarella stars.

4. Tear fresh basil leaves over the salad and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately.

Nutrients

• Calories: 152 kcal

• Total Fat: 8g

• Saturated Fat: 3g

• Unsaturated Fat: 4g

• Cholesterol: 13mg

• Sodium: 173mg

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 12g

• Protein: 5g

The Classic Caprese Salad with a Patriotic Twist

The Caprese salad is a simple Italian dish traditionally made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. It’s a light, flavorful salad that has become a classic in many parts of the world, particularly in Italy. The Red, White, and Blue Caprese Salad builds upon this beloved dish by adding colorful ingredients that represent the American flag—red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and blue blueberries—while retaining the refreshing, classic flavors of the original recipe.

In this twist on the traditional Caprese, the mozzarella cheese is shaped into stars, adding a playful touch that makes the salad perfect for celebrations. The blueberries provide a burst of sweetness, which contrasts beautifully with the tangy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. The fresh basil leaves tie everything together with their aromatic fragrance, offering a herby balance to the sweetness and creaminess of the other ingredients. This combination of flavors and colors makes this salad a unique and festive choice for any summer event.

Ingredients That Make the Salad Special

What makes the Red, White, and Blue Caprese Salad so special is the combination of simple, fresh ingredients that work together in perfect harmony. Cherry tomatoes are used for their sweetness and juiciness, which balance the creamy richness of the mozzarella. Tomatoes are the classic base of any Caprese salad, and in this case, they provide the vibrant red color that is essential for the patriotic theme.

Blueberries are added to provide a pop of blue, adding not only color but also a natural sweetness that enhances the salad’s overall flavor. The tartness of the blueberries contrasts with the tomatoes and mozzarella, offering a refreshing burst of flavor with every bite. The use of fresh, high-quality mozzarella cheese is crucial for the dish’s creamy texture. Firm buffalo mozzarella works well because it holds its shape when sliced, making it perfect for cutting into star shapes.

Fresh basil adds a layer of fragrance and a slightly peppery flavor that cuts through the richness of the cheese and complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and blueberries. The simple dressing of balsamic vinegar and olive oil brings everything together, enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients without overpowering them. A sprinkle of salt and pepper is all that’s needed to season the salad and bring out the vibrant flavors of the fresh produce.

The Star-Shaped Mozzarella: A Fun and Patriotic Touch

One of the most unique features of this Red, White, and Blue Caprese Salad is the mozzarella cheese, which is cut into star shapes using a small metal cookie cutter. This fun, festive addition turns the salad into a more visually striking dish, making it the perfect side for patriotic celebrations. The mozzarella stars are not just decorative; they also add a nice bite-sized piece of cheese that is easy to pick up and eat, making the salad even more enjoyable.

Cutting the mozzarella into stars is simple and adds a charming touch to the dish. It’s a small step that elevates the presentation, making it feel more festive and appropriate for special occasions like the 4th of July. The mozzarella stars complement the other ingredients perfectly, and their mild, creamy flavor is a delicious contrast to the tangy tomatoes and the sweet blueberries.

The Flavor Balance: Sweet, Savory, and Tangy

The flavor profile of the Red, White, and Blue Caprese Salad is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy. The cherry tomatoes provide a sweet, juicy bite, while the mozzarella offers a mild, creamy richness. The blueberries introduce a burst of natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements of the salad, especially the mozzarella and the olive oil. The fresh basil leaves add a fragrant, herby note that ties all the flavors together, offering a subtle peppery flavor that balances the sweetness of the fruit.

The balsamic vinegar adds an essential tangy note that enhances the overall flavor of the salad, creating a slight acidity that cuts through the richness of the cheese and complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and blueberries. Olive oil adds a smooth, velvety texture to the dressing, helping to marry all the ingredients together while providing a rich, slightly fruity flavor. A pinch of salt and pepper is the perfect finishing touch, bringing out the natural flavors of the fresh ingredients without overpowering them.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

This Red, White, and Blue Caprese Salad is as beautiful as it is delicious, making it perfect for presentation at parties and gatherings. The bright red, white, and blue colors create a striking visual that is sure to impress guests, and the combination of fresh, healthy ingredients makes it a refreshing dish to serve during warm summer months. The mozzarella stars add an extra layer of fun, making the salad feel festive and celebratory.

The salad can be served on a large platter for a buffet-style presentation or in individual bowls for a more personal touch. Consider garnishing the salad with additional fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, or a light sprinkle of sea salt for added flavor and visual appeal. The addition of lemon wedges on the side can also provide a burst of freshness for guests who enjoy an extra citrusy kick with their salad.

This salad is perfect for summer BBQs, picnics, or as a side dish at a holiday celebration. It pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or even as a light lunch on its own. The balance of flavors makes it an ideal accompaniment to other summer dishes, such as grilled chicken, burgers, or even pasta salad. The fresh, light nature of the salad also makes it a great option for a refreshing and healthy dish when you’re looking for something simple but flavorful.

Health Considerations

The Red, White, and Blue Caprese Salad is a healthy and nutritious dish that is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats. Cherry tomatoes are a good source of vitamins A and C, both of which are important for immune health and skin care. Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which help fight inflammation and protect the body from oxidative stress. Fresh basil is rich in vitamin K and provides anti-inflammatory properties, making it a beneficial herb for overall health.

Mozzarella cheese provides a good source of calcium and protein, and the olive oil used in the dressing is a great source of monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy fats that help support overall wellness. Balsamic vinegar adds a touch of tangy flavor without adding excessive calories, making it a great choice for a light, healthy dressing.

Conclusion

The Red, White, and Blue Caprese Salad is a delicious, fresh, and visually stunning twist on the classic Caprese salad. With its sweet blueberries, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella stars, and fragrant basil, this dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The addition of balsamic vinegar and olive oil enhances the natural ingredients, making the salad light yet satisfying. Ideal for summer gatherings, patriotic celebrations, or any occasion that calls for a festive dish, this Red, White, and Blue Caprese Salad is sure to become a favorite. Not only is it a delicious side dish, but it’s also a healthy and refreshing addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad offers a simple yet elegant way to celebrate the season.