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Fresh Zucchini Noodle Caprese Salad Recipe with Easy Balsamic Glaze

fresh zucchini noodle caprese salad - featured image

A light, fresh, and vibrant zucchini noodle Caprese salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a homemade balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick, healthy summer meal or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
  • 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine size)
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Flaky sea salt (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Wash the zucchini well. Using your spiralizer, create noodles from all three zucchinis. If using a vegetable peeler, peel long ribbons instead. Place the noodles in a colander, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let them rest for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Gently pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a low boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally and let it reduce until thickened and syrupy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Halve the cherry tomatoes and tear the fresh basil leaves into bite-sized pieces. Drain mozzarella balls from their liquid.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the zucchini noodles, halved tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and torn basil. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the top. Toss gently but thoroughly to combine flavors without bruising the basil or squishing the tomatoes.
  5. Add freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Drizzle the balsamic glaze sparingly over the salad (start with 2 tablespoons). Toss lightly once more to distribute the glaze evenly.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired. Serve immediately for the freshest texture.

Notes

Resting zucchini noodles with salt draws out moisture to prevent sogginess. Use gentle tossing to avoid bruising basil or crushing tomatoes. Watch balsamic glaze carefully to avoid burning. Store noodles and glaze separately if prepping ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini noodles, Caprese salad, balsamic glaze, fresh salad, healthy salad, summer recipe, vegetarian, low-carb