This unique twist to an old classic pairs balsamic-infused cherries with ripe avocado and just a splash of fresh lime juice – definitely an exotic flavor profile!
This beautiful and flavorful salad was the result of seeking more ways to enjoy fresh summer cherries. I was delighted to find that they add an amazing depth of flavor to traditional caprese. Unfortunately, fresh cherries are only available for a very short season. So if you’re like me, you may find yourself over-indulging in this delightful salad while supplies last!
What to do if it’s not cherry season? Simple! Just toss in some fresh organic strawberries instead – also fantastic!
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup fresh organic basil leaves, cut in thin strips
- 1 tbsp fresh-squeezed lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 20 fresh organic cherries, pitted and halved (or strawberries, see note below)
- 8 oz. sweet grape tomatoes, halved (I used yellow for fun!)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- Optional: 4 oz. pearl-size fresh mozzarella balls, or diced fresh mozzarella
Instructions
- In a large bowl, add chopped basil, lime juice, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper. Combine well.
- Remove stems and pit cherries. Then slice the cherries, as well as the grape tomatoes, in half and add them both to the basil mixture; toss well.
- Drain mozzarella balls and also add to the basil mixture; toss well to coat.
- Caprese is best served at room temp. However, if you prefer it cold, place it in the frig for no longer than one hour.
- When ready to serve, gently fold in the diced avocado; do not overmix, especially if avocado is soft.
- Serve solo, or over a mix of fresh mesclun greens. So flavorful!
Notes
This delightful version of caprese is so fresh and delicious, but it doesn't keep well, so be sure to enjoy it within a couple hours or so of making it.
Recipe Variation: This salad is equally delicious with fresh ripe strawberries! Simply quarter about 6-8 strawberries and toss in as noted above.
Yum! I can’t wait to try this salad. I’m headed to the store today to pick up cherries, so I think this will be just the right dish to make with them. What a great idea! I hope you’ll it share at Allergy-Free Wednesdays today.
Hi, Michelle! I hope you enjoy this! I have this one slated for next week’s blog hops, so I’ll definitely be sharing it on your link-up next week! Thanks again for all your kindness! Blessings, Kelly 🙂
This looks so delicious and after the great success with your coleslaw recipe I’m anxious to try this one too:)
Thanks, Liz! Hope you enjoy it! 🙂 Kelly
wow this just jumps off the page! it is so beautiful! thanks for sharing!
Thanks so much, Caralyn! You are so kind! 🙂 Blessings, Kelly
This salad looks so interesting. I would never think to have cherries and avocado together. It inspires me to try avocado with different flavors.
Thanks, Suzy! I’ve had a couple people say the same thing and have loved this too. The great thing about avocados is their mild flavor and creamy texture make them a great addition to many different recipes. I really like them in egg salad too: http://thenourishinghome.com/2012/05/avocado-egg-salad-gf/
Glad to be able to inspire you to add more avocados to your diet – they are such a nutritious addition to meals!
Blessings, Kelly
Sounds good.
Thanks, Denise! 🙂
Beautiful!
Thank you so much, Rogene! 🙂
This looks great! Cherries aren’t readily available here so I’ll probably omit those but the rest looks delish!!
Hi, Rachel. Cherry season does vary by location and some areas may not get them at all. This will need a little sweet in it to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and lime/balsamic, so I would recommend substituting in some fresh organic strawberries if you have those in your area. Enjoy! Blessings, Kelly
So clever, LOVE this idea! Delish, delish, delish! Pinning, pinning, pinned! Thanks for sharing this with Summer Salad Sundays, look forward to seeing you again soon!
Thanks, Debbie! So happy you like this and pinned it – thank you! Blessings, Kelly 🙂
I have chosen to feature your salad this week! I have tweeted it, pinned it and shared it on my Facebook page. It will be featured on Summer Salad Sundays this coming Sunday. Thanks for linking up and I hope to see you again soon!
You are so sweet, Debbie! Thank you so much! I am so glad you like it and appreciate your kind shout-out! You’re such a blessing! eHugs, Kelly
Looking so yummie! Found you through Living Well Wednesday link party. I will definitely try this recipe, thanks for sharing
So nice to meet you! Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a sweet note! Hope you enjoy it! Blessings, Kelly 🙂
Wow! That looks YUMMY! Never would have thought to put cherries in a dish like that, but it sounds good.
Thanks so much, Debra! Your site is so precious! Love the name! 🙂 Blessings, Kelly