Summer salads require two things: fresh flavors and minimal effort! And, low carb salads like this chopped Caprese salad with cherry tomatoes are meant to be enjoyed outside. With all the elements of classic Caprese salad, this one passes the summer salad test. The flavors are light and refreshing (like caprese salad skewers made into a full side dish). Plus, you can make this avocado Caprese salad recipe with just 7 simple ingredients! Keto Caprese salad FTW! I know a lot of people say that they get tired of eating salads, and that is what inspired me to create this avocado Caprese salad! There is nothing boring about these flavors, and the best part is that it’s HEALTHY! I love to make easy low carb salads that taste great, and this one is the perfect opportunity to incorporate summer produce at its peak.
What Is Caprese Salad?
Caprese salad is an Italian style salad that has become pretty well known. Traditionally, chopped Caprese salad is full of fresh mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, and olive oil. It was invented in the 1950s because it’s an amazing dish to make with fresh garden tomatoes. My version of chopped Caprese salad has my own spin on these classic flavors. And avocado, because, well it’s avocado!
Caprese Salad Ingredients
Balsamic vinegar Olive oil Garlic powder Sea salt Black pepper Cherry or grape tomatoes Fresh mozzarella balls Avocado Fresh basil
Want to make caprese more of a meal? Try chicken caprese salad instead!
How To Make Caprese Salad
Ready to see how to make Caprese salad? It doesn’t get any easier. We’ll make the balsamic reduction first, then make up the salad.
In a small saucepan, add the balsamic vinegar. Simmer until the balsamic has thickened and reduced. This adds amazing flavor, so don’t skip the reduction step! You can also buy already reduced balsamic vinegar, but make sure that it doesn’t have any added sweetener in it.
PRO TIP: The balsamic reduction will continue to thicken after you remove it from the stove. So, you want to stop heating when it’s a bit thinner than you think you’ll need.
Make the dressing. Whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper.
Mix salad. Carefully toss in the tomatoes, mozzarella, avocado, and fresh basil. Drizzle with balsamic reduction.
Caprese Salad With Cherry Tomatoes Variations
This is the best Caprese salad with balsamic already! But, here are some ideas if you want to make some additions:
Chicken – Dice up a grilled chicken breast and add to the avocado Caprese salad for some added protein. Sounds like the perfect summer lunch to me! Bacon – No one says you have to be traditional all the time! Cook up some bacon in the oven, crumble it, and toss it in. Olives – They add a nice tangy flavor to the chopped Caprese salad.
Do I Have To Use Balsamic Vinegar In Keto Caprese Salad?
No, you don’t have to use balsamic vinegar in keto Caprese salad. The original Caprese salad recipe didn’t call for balsamic vinegar at all, just a drizzle of olive oil. So, if you don’t love balsamic, it’s okay to leave it out. I think it adds amazing flavor and depth, but you can make adjustments to meet your needs.
Is Caprese Salad Healthy?
Yes, chopped Caprese salad is very healthy! This Caprese salad with cherry tomatoes is loaded with vegetables and protein, zinc, vitamin B12, beta-carotene, potassium, and more. Enjoy this avocado Caprese salad as an appetizer or main dish because you will be getting lots of nutrient-rich ingredients.
How Do You Store Keto Caprese Salad?
Store Caprese salad with cherry tomatoes in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last 2-3 days if it’s properly stored and makes wonderful leftovers. This is the best Caprese salad recipe because you can also make it ahead for meal planning.
What To Serve With This Caprese Salad Recipe
There are so many delicious low carb main dishes that will go perfectly with this Caprese salad recipe. You won’t regret trying any of these ideas:
Sirloin Steak In The Oven The Best Juicy Burgers Paleo Chipotle Baked Turkey Burgers The Best Chimichurri Chicken
Whisk – I love this utensil set because they are all super easy to clean and use. Plus, they have bamboo handles. Spoon Rest – It’s not required, but having a spoon rest sure helps keep the kitchen organized and clean. Worth it! Serving Bowl – This set of serving bowls are amazing because you can bake in them, serve food in them, or mix ingredients. They are practically the only bowls you need.
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