Caprese Zoodle Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Caprese Zoodle Salad is a refreshing, light twist on the classic Caprese salad, substituting traditional pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles. Packed with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, it’s a vibrant, low-carb dish that’s perfect for summer lunches, picnics, or a quick healthy dinner. Its combination of textures and flavors makes every bite a delight.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

zucchinitomatofresh mozzarella ballsfresh basil leavesolive oilbalsamic glaze salt pepper

directions

Spiralize the zucchini into noodles and place them in a large bowl.

Halve the cherry or grape tomatoes and add them to the bowl.

Tear or slice the mozzarella balls into bite-sized pieces and add them as well.

Toss the zucchini noodles, tomatoes, and mozzarella gently together.

Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Top with fresh basil leaves.

Finish with a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesTotal time: 10 minutes

Variations

Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.

Mix in some avocado slices for extra creaminess.

Use yellow squash noodles for a colorful variation.

Sprinkle with crushed red pepper for a bit of heat.

storage/reheating

Store Caprese Zoodle Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.Zoodles release moisture over time, so drain any excess liquid before serving again.Best enjoyed fresh and cold; reheating is not recommended.

FAQs

Can I use pre-spiralized zucchini?

Yes, pre-spiralized zucchini is a great time-saver for this recipe.

Do I need to cook the zoodles?

No, this salad is best with raw, crisp zucchini noodles.

Can I use regular mozzarella instead of mozzarella balls?

Absolutely, just cut it into small cubes.

What can I use instead of balsamic glaze?

A simple balsamic vinegar reduction or a splash of plain balsamic vinegar will work.

How do I keep the zoodles from getting soggy?

Toss them with a little salt and let them sit for a few minutes, then pat dry with paper towels before assembling the salad.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients separately, but assemble just before serving for the best texture.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and perfect for a keto diet.

What other vegetables can I add?

Cucumber slices, roasted peppers, or artichoke hearts make great additions.

Can I use dried basil?

Fresh basil is highly recommended for the best flavor, but dried can be used in a pinch.

What if I don’t have a spiralizer?

You can use a julienne peeler or buy pre-spiralized zucchini from the store.

Conclusion

Caprese Zoodle Salad is a bright, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for warm-weather meals. With its blend of fresh ingredients and healthy twist on a classic favorite, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe whenever you’re craving something light yet satisfying. Try it once, and you’ll fall in love with its simplicity and taste!

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