Tomato Peach Mozzarella Delight

This vibrant Summer Caprese Salad celebrates the best of the season with juicy tomatoes, sweet peaches, and creamy mozzarella. The combination creates a refreshing dish that's perfect for hot summer days when you want something light yet satisfying that requires no cooking at all.

I first made this elevated caprese when hosting an impromptu backyard gathering last August. The colorful presentation had everyone reaching for seconds before the main course even arrived, and now it's requested at every summer function I attend.

Ingredients

• Fresh tomatoes: choose ripe, fragrant heirloom varieties for the best flavor and visual appeal
• Fresh mozzarella: splurge on high quality buffalo mozzarella for that perfect creamy texture
• Ripe peaches: the unexpected sweet element that makes this salad special
• Seedless cucumber: adds refreshing crunch and subtle flavor
• Cherry tomatoes: provides textural contrast and bursts of sweetness
• Red onion: just enough for a gentle bite without overpowering
• Fresh basil leaves: essential for authentic caprese flavor
• Kosher salt: enhances all the natural flavors
• Freshly ground black pepper: provides gentle warmth and complexity
• Balsamic glaze: the finishing touch that ties everything together with sweet acidity

Step-by-Step Instructions

Arrange the base ingredients:

Place sliced tomatoes and mozzarella in an alternating pattern around the outer edge of a large serving platter. This creates a beautiful foundation for the salad and follows the traditional caprese arrangement.

Layer in the fruit and vegetables:

Artfully arrange peach slices, cucumber pieces, halved cherry tomatoes, and red onion across the center of the platter. Distribute them evenly for both visual appeal and to ensure every serving gets a bit of everything.

Add the herbs:

Scatter fresh basil leaves throughout the salad, tucking some between the tomato and mozzarella slices and placing others on top. The bright green color provides beautiful contrast against the reds, whites, and oranges.

Season thoughtfully:

Sprinkle the entire salad with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, being careful not to oversalt. The salt will draw out the natural flavors of the produce.

Finish with balsamic:

Drizzle the balsamic glaze in thin streams across the entire salad just before serving. Use a back and forth motion for even distribution and an elegant presentation.

Pin

The peaches are truly what make this caprese extraordinary. I discovered this combination while trying to use up an abundance from our farmers market, and the sweet juicy fruit pairs surprisingly well with the savory elements. My daughter now requests this salad specifically for her birthday dinner every July.

Make Ahead Tips

This salad is best assembled shortly before serving, but you can prep components up to 4 hours ahead. Slice the mozzarella, vegetables, and fruits, then store them separately in the refrigerator. The basil should be torn just before serving to prevent browning. Assemble everything on your platter when guests arrive for the freshest presentation.

Ingredient Substitutions

No peaches available? Try using ripe nectarines, plums, or even strawberries for a similar sweet element. For the cheese, burrata makes a luxurious alternative to mozzarella with its cream filled center. If you prefer a dairy free option, avocado provides a similar creamy texture. Regular balsamic vinegar mixed with a touch of honey works well if you cannot find premade balsamic glaze.

Pin

Serving Suggestions

This colorful caprese salad pairs beautifully with grilled proteins like chicken, fish, or steak. It also makes a stunning appetizer served with crusty bread for scooping up all the flavors. For a complete meal, serve alongside pasta dressed simply with olive oil and herbs. The salad works equally well for casual backyard barbecues or more formal dinner parties, always drawing compliments for its vibrant appearance.

The Perfect Balsamic Finish

The quality of your balsamic glaze significantly impacts the final result. Store bought options work well for convenience, but making your own by simmering balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey until reduced and syrupy gives you complete control over the sweetness level. Apply the glaze just before serving to maintain the crisp freshness of the vegetables and prevent the colors from bleeding into the mozzarella.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this Caprese salad ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the components up to 4 hours ahead. Slice the tomatoes, mozzarella, peaches, cucumber, and red onion, then store separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and add the basil, seasoning, and balsamic glaze just before serving to maintain optimal texture and freshness.

→ What can I substitute for peaches if they're not in season?

If peaches aren't available, try nectarines, plums, or strawberries for a similar sweet contrast to the savory elements. During winter months, you could omit fruit entirely and double up on tomatoes, or try roasted red peppers for a different but complementary flavor profile.

→ How do I make balsamic glaze if I can't find it at the store?

To make homemade balsamic glaze, simmer 1 cup of balsamic vinegar with 2 tablespoons of honey or sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until reduced by half and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Let cool completely before drizzling.

→ What main dishes pair well with this summer salad?

This Caprese salad pairs beautifully with grilled proteins like chicken, fish, or steak. It's also excellent alongside pasta dishes, particularly those with light sauces. For a vegetarian meal, serve with crusty bread, a frittata, or grilled vegetables for a complete summer feast.

→ Is there a dairy-free alternative for the mozzarella?

For a dairy-free version, substitute plant-based mozzarella alternatives made from cashews or coconut oil. Alternatively, try avocado slices for a creamy texture, though the flavor profile will be different. Firm tofu marinated in lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs can also provide a protein-rich alternative with a similar texture.

→ How can I turn this into a main dish?

Transform this into a main dish by adding protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans. You could also serve it over cooked farro, quinoa, or orzo pasta to make it more substantial. Another option is to pair it with crusty bread spread with high-quality olive oil for a light yet satisfying meal.