Ingredients
Vinaigrette
- 2 tablespoons champagne vinegar
- 1 to 2 pinches kosher salt
- freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Salad
- 10 ounces arugula or baby arugula
- 2 to 4 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, torn (plus more for serving)
- 2 to 4 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, torn (plus more for serving)
- 12 ounces blackberries, rinsed and patted dry
- 12 ounces strawberries, trimmed, rinsed and patted dry
- 6 ounces blueberries, rinsed and patted dry
- 8 ounces ciliegine mozzarella, cut in half
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (more or less to taste)
Instructions
- Make the vinaigrette: In a small bowl or glass jar, combine 2 tablespoons champagne vinegar, 1 to 2 pinches kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Secure the lid and shake well or whisk until fully emulsified.
- Prepare the salad base: Place 10 ounces of arugula, 2 to 4 tablespoons torn fresh basil leaves, and 2 to 4 tablespoons torn fresh mint leaves into a large bowl. Drizzle the freshly made vinaigrette over the greens and toss thoroughly to coat every leaf evenly.
- Assemble the salad: Transfer the dressed arugula mixture to a large serving platter or divide it among individual plates to create your salad base.
- Add berries and mozzarella: Evenly top the greens with 12 ounces of blackberries, 12 ounces of strawberries, 6 ounces of blueberries, and 8 ounces of halved ciliegine mozzarella, distributing them to showcase the colors and textures beautifully.
- Finish and serve: Drizzle 1 to 2 tablespoons of balsamic glaze over the entire salad for a touch of sweetness and tang. Optionally sprinkle additional freshly ground black pepper and garnish with extra basil and mint leaves before serving immediately.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh, ripe berries that are properly washed and dried to avoid watering down the salad.
- The balsamic glaze adds sweetness and acidity; adjust the amount according to your taste preference.
- This salad is best served immediately to keep the arugula crisp and the berries fresh.
- Substitute ciliegine mozzarella with fresh mozzarella balls if unavailable.
- Can be enjoyed as a light lunch, appetizer, or side dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian