Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 5 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz. mozzarella pearls
- ½ cup red onions, thinly sliced
- 10-15 fresh basil leaves, chiffonade
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil (or extra virgin olive oil)
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: Combine avocado oil, balsamic vinaigrette, red wine vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, grated parmesan cheese, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small 8 oz. container with a lid. Shake vigorously until all ingredients are well incorporated. Refrigerate the dressing until ready to use to let flavors meld.
- Prepare the Vegetables and Cheese: Slice the cherry tomatoes into halves or thirds. If desired, place them middle-size-down on a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Thinly slice the red onions and chiffonade the fresh basil leaves finely for an aromatic touch.
- Toss the Salad: Transfer the tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, sliced onions, and basil into a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Using a silicone spatula, gently toss everything together until all pieces are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish. Optionally, drizzle balsamic glaze around the perimeter or on top of the salad to enhance sweetness and presentation. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors at their peak.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes and high-quality mozzarella pearls.
- Balsamic glaze is optional but adds a nice sweet tangy finish.
- You can substitute avocado oil with extra virgin olive oil depending on preference.
- If you prefer, let the salad chill briefly in the refrigerator before serving to meld flavors.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste based on your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
