A fresh, colorful platter of Watermelon Caprese is a great choice for summer entertaining. Layers of juicy watermelon, fresh mozzarella, and basil are drizzled with balsamic glaze to create an easy appetizer or side dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
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A Note From My Kitchen
After ordering a watermelon caprese salad at a restaurant, I knew I was going to recreate it. I did just that while on vacation last summer and brought it to a potluck barbecue at my brother’s house. It was perfect, easy to make in our rental cabin’s kitchen, easy to transport, and gorgeous on the table.
The concept is simple but so fun and unique. Instead of tomatoes, this caprese is made with slices of sweet watermelon layered with fresh mozzarella cheese and basil. Blackberries, fresh mint, chopped pistachios, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze take it over the top. The combination of flavors and textures is irresistible, crunchy, creamy, sweet, savory, and absolutely delicious.
A Simple Fruit Salad or a Fruit Platter always works, but if you’re looking for something easy to make that will leave an impression, Watermelon Caprese is an excellent choice.
Ingredient Notes
- Watermelon: A small 4- to 5-pound seedless watermelon is perfect for this recipe. Choose one that feels heavy for its size and is free of soft spots.
- Fresh Mozzarella: Use a log of fresh mozzarella and slice it to match the thickness of the watermelon.
- Basil: Fresh basil is essential for classic caprese flavor. Use whole small leaves or tear larger leaves as needed.
- Blackberries: Add an unexpected pop of color and a subtle tart-sweet flavor that complements the watermelon and balsamic glaze.
- Pistachios: Lightly salted pistachios add a delicious crunch and contrast to the soft watermelon and mozzarella.
- Mint: Fresh mint brightens the salad and adds a refreshing finish.
- Balsamic Glaze: This thick, sweet-tart condiment adds the perfect finishing touch to watermelon caprese. You’ll find it near the vinegar section at most grocery stores. Both Costco and Trader Joe’s have a great price.
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Pin ItHow to Make Watermelon Caprese
- Start by slicing the watermelon into rounds about ⅓- to ½-inch thick.
- Trim away the rind, then cut the watermelon into approximately 2-inch squares.
- Slice the mozzarella into pieces that are similar in thickness to the watermelon. Arrange the watermelon, mozzarella, and basil leaves in alternating layers on a serving platter.
- Scatter the blackberries and chopped pistachios over and around the caprese and garnish with torn mint leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.
Valerie’s Tips
- Even Slices: Slice the watermelon and mozzarella to a similar thickness so they layer neatly on the platter and create the perfect balance of flavors in each bite.
- Chill the Glaze: Refrigerate the balsamic glaze before serving to help it thicken slightly. Drizzle it over the caprese just before serving for the freshest presentation.
- Add Some Zing: For a little extra flavor, lightly sprinkle the finished platter with Tajín. Its blend of chile peppers, lime, and salt adds a bright, zesty contrast to the sweet watermelon.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the platter up to a few hours in advance and refrigerate it until ready to serve. Wait to add the pistachios, mint, and balsamic glaze until just before serving.
- Potluck Friendly: If transporting the platter to a party or potluck, cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to leave. Add the final garnishes when you arrive.
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Watermelon Caprese
Ingredients
- 1 small seedless watermelon
- 16 ounces fresh mozzarella
- Fresh basil leaves, as needed
- A handful of fresh blackberries
- 3 tablespoons pistachios, lightly salted, coarsely chopped
- Fresh mint leaves, torn, for garnish
- Balsamic glaze, as desired
- Tajín, optional and as desired
Instructions
- Slice the watermelon into approximately ⅓- to ½-inch thick squares, about 2×2 inches. Slice the fresh mozzarella into pieces to match the thickness of the watermelon
- On a serving platter, alternate slices of watermelon, mozzarella, and basil leaves. Scatter the blackberries and pistachios over and around the caprese and garnish with torn mint leaves. Just before serving, drizzle with balsamic glaze and finish with a light sprinkle of Tajín, if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated using generic ingredients, and is an estimate not a guarantee. For more accurate results, please refer to the labels on your ingredients at home.
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