I’ve tossed together a vibrant Chopped Peach Caprese Salad that blends juicy peach chunks, fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil for a colorful, flavor-packed twist on the classic Caprese salad.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how sweet peaches add a summery twist to the familiar Caprese combo. The juicy fruit balances the creamy mozzarella and the bright basil, while a simple balsamic dressing ties everything together. It’s refreshing, easy to prepare, and perfect for warm-weather meals or elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
(here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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ripe peaches, pitted and chopped
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fresh mozzarella (bocconcini or fresh pearls), halved or torn
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cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (or larger tomatoes chopped)
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fresh basil leaves, torn or thinly sliced
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mixed greens or arugula (optional)
Dressing
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extra-virgin olive oil
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balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze
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honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
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garlic, minced or garlic powder
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salt and pepper
Directions
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I layer or toss chopped peaches, mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and mixed greens (if using) in a large bowl or on a serving platter.
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In a small bowl, I whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or glaze), a touch of honey (if I want extra sweetness), garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
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I drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly, being careful not to break the peaches.
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I taste and make any adjustments—sometimes more balsamic or a pinch of salt—and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Servings and timing
This salad serves about 4–6 people as a side or 2–3 as a light main.
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Total time: Around 10 minutes
Variations
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Herb switch-up: I swap basil with fresh mint or basil-mint combo for a refreshing twist.
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Cheese alternatives: I use burrata or creamy goat cheese instead of mozzarella for extra creaminess.
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Nutty crunch: I sprinkle toasted pine nuts, sliced almonds, or walnuts on top.
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Fruit mix: I stir in berries like strawberries or blueberries for extra color and flavor.
storage/reheating
I store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Since peaches and tomatoes release juice over time, I give it a gentle stir before serving and, if needed, add a quick drizzle of olive oil or balsamic to freshen it up. It’s best eaten fresh and at room temperature.
FAQs
How do I choose the best peaches?
I look for peaches that are ripe but still firm—slightly soft when gently squeezed. They should smell fragrant and juicy with no green underneath the skin.
Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
I prefer fresh because they have better texture and flavor. If I do use canned, I drain them thoroughly and reduce or skip the honey in the dressing to avoid extra sweetness.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes—it’s naturally vegetarian. To make it vegan, I swap mozzarella for dairy-free cheese or tofu and use maple syrup instead of honey.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
I prep the dressing, chop fruit, and slice cheese ahead of time. I toss everything together about 10 minutes before serving so the peaches and tomatoes hold their shape.
What should I serve this with?
I serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or crusty bread. It’s also fantastic as part of a summer lunch or elegant brunch spread.
Conclusion
This Chopped Peach Caprese Salad is a deliciously fresh and easy way to celebrate summer flavors. I love its lively balance of sweet peaches, creamy cheese, and bright basil. It’s always a hit when I bring it out—simple, elegant, and bursting with seasonal goodness.
PrintChopped Peach Caprese Salad
A fresh, summery twist on the classic Caprese salad featuring juicy peaches, ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, all lightly dressed in a sweet-tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for warm-weather meals and gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings (side) or 2–3 servings (main)
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 ripe peaches, pitted and chopped
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella (bocconcini or pearls), halved or torn
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or thinly sliced
- 2 cups mixed greens or arugula (optional)
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1.5 tbsp balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced or 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl or serving platter, layer or gently toss the chopped peaches, mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and mixed greens if using.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar or glaze, honey (if using), garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, being careful not to mash the peaches.
- Taste and adjust with extra balsamic or salt if needed. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Swap basil with fresh mint or a mint-basil blend for variation.
- Use burrata or goat cheese instead of mozzarella for a creamy alternative.
- Add toasted nuts like pine nuts, almonds, or walnuts for crunch.
- Mix in berries like strawberries or blueberries for extra color and sweetness.
- Best served fresh; refrigerate leftovers for up to 1 day.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (of 4)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg