Watermelon Caprese Salad

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This refreshing twist on the classic caprese salad replaces tomatoes with sweet, juicy watermelon. Basil and balsamic vinegar push this easy summer salad to the savory side, but if you want some sweeter notes, opt for balsamic glaze. An optional drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil at the end helps marry the flavors.

Carolyn Casner

Updated on August 9, 2024

Tested by

EatingWell Test Kitchen

Reviewed by Dietitian

Jessica Ball, M.S., RD

Fact checked by

Christa Brown, M.S., RDN, LD

Prep Time:

15 mins

Total Time:

15 mins

Servings:

Yield:

6 servings

Nutrition Profile:

Low-Carb Nut-Free Soy-Free Vegetarian Egg-Free Gluten-Free

Jump to Nutrition Facts

Sweet watermelon stands in for tomatoes in this Watermelon Caprese Salad. Cool and crisp, the watermelon is complemented by creamy fresh mozzarella. Herby basil brings subtle sweet notes while the complex tangy-sweet flavors of balsamic vinegar tie everything together. Keep reading for expert tips, including how to make your own balsamic glaze.

Nutrition Notes

If you're looking for ways to increase hydration, watermelon should be one of your go-to fruits. Besides water, watermelon also provides some vitamin C, which supports immunity, and a little bit of vitamin A for eye health. Its gorgeous pink color comes from the antioxidant lycopene, which reduces inflammation, supports a healthy heart and reduces cancer risk.
Balsamic vinegar is rich in antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds that may leave you with glowing skin. And while it contains antimicrobials, it also contains probiotics—beneficial bacteria that colonize your gut and help improve digestion and overall health. Preventing blood sugar spikes is important, and balsamic vinegar may help with that, too.
Including herbs and spices, like basil, in your diet adds small amounts of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals each time you eat them. Over time, this can add up to some big health benefits when eaten regularly, including reducing inflammation.
Like all cheese, mozzarella provides muscle-building protein and bone-supporting calcium. Fresh mozzarella is one of the lower-sodium cheeses, making it a great option for those watching their sodium intake. Mozzarella also contains probiotics for a healthy gut.

Tips from the EatingWell Test Kitchen

You can purchase balsamic glaze in well-stocked supermarkets or make it yourself. Simply boil 1 cup of balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium-high heat until it's reduced to about 1/4 cup, about 10 to 14 minutes. Let it cool before using, and then refrigerate the rest for later use (it will last a few weeks).
Adding 1/4 teaspoon of salt will enhance the sweet flavor of the watermelon.
This salad is best enjoyed right after assembly. However, you can do some prepping the day before with the mozzarella, watermelon and basil, storing each in separate containers in the fridge.
You can buy mozzarella pearls, so you don't have to cut up a mozzarella ball.

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Ingredients

4 ounces fresh mozzarella, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground pepper
4 cups cubed seedless watermelon
¼ cup thinly sliced fresh basil
1 tablespoon best-quality balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze (see Tip)
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (Optional)

Directions

Stir mozzarella, salt and pepper together in a medium bowl. Add watermelon and basil; toss to combine. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar (or glaze) and olive oil (if desired).

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you choose a sweet-tasting watermelon?

Choose a watermelon that's evenly shaped with smooth skin and a hint of yellow somewhere on it. The melon should feel heavy for its size; when tapped gently with the palm of the hand, it should sound hollow. If all these points are met, rest assured, you have chosen well.
What can you do with leftover watermelon?

It makes an irresistible snack, but you can add it to smoothies or make our Watermelon Juice, cocktail, ice pops, sorbet, salsa and gazpacho. You can grill it with chile-lime seasoning. If you can't decide what to do with it right away, Make sure to pop it in the fridge with the cut side of the watermelon wrapped well with cling wrap or store the cut pieces in an airtight container in the fridge, where it should be good for up to 5 days. You can also freeze watermelon in an airtight bag for up to 8 months.
What should you serve with Watermelon Caprese Salad?

When a light meal is in order, this salad and crusty bread are satisfying enough. However, it is also a natural pairing for nearly everything you toss on the grill, such as chicken, steak, seafood or burgers. It goes great with pasta too.

Additional reporting by Carrie Myers and Linda Frahm

Originally appeared: EatingWell.com, July 2020

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

89	Calories
4g	Fat
9g	Carbs
5g	Protein

Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 6
Serving Size 3/4 cup
Calories 89
% Daily Value *
Total Carbohydrate 9g	3%
Dietary Fiber 1g	2%
Total Sugars 7g
Protein 5g	10%
Total Fat 4g	5%
Saturated Fat 2g	11%
Cholesterol 12mg	4%
Vitamin A 827IU	17%
Vitamin C 9mg	9%
Folate 9mcg	2%
Sodium 225mg	10%
Calcium 143mg	11%
Iron 0mg	2%
Magnesium 17mg	4%
Potassium 159mg	3%

Nutrition information is calculated by a registered dietitian using an ingredient database but should be considered an estimate.

* Daily Values (DVs) are the recommended amounts of nutrients to consume each day. Percent Daily Value (%DV) found on nutrition labels tells you how much a serving of a particular food or recipe contributes to each of those total recommended amounts. Per the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the daily value is based on a standard 2,000 calorie diet. Depending on your calorie needs or if you have a health condition, you may need more or less of particular nutrients. (For example, it’s recommended that people following a heart-healthy diet eat less sodium on a daily basis compared to those following a standard diet.)

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a special diet for medical reasons, be sure to consult with your primary care provider or a registered dietitian to better understand your personal nutrition needs.