Summer Caprese with Peaches

This fresh Summer Caprese Salad brings together the perfect harmony of juicy tomatoes, sweet peaches, cool cucumber, and creamy mozzarella for a vibrant summer dish that celebrates seasonal produce at its peak. I created this twist on the classic Italian salad when my garden was overflowing with tomatoes and basil, and it's been my go-to entertaining recipe ever since.

I first served this at a backyard gathering last July, and my guests were fighting over the last portions. The combination of traditional caprese ingredients with sweet summer peaches creates a flavor profile that's both familiar and surprisingly delightful.

Ingredients

• Large tomatoes: Choose ripe, locally grown heirloom varieties if possible for the best flavor and beautiful color variation
• Fresh mozzarella: Look for balls packed in water for the creamiest texture and mild flavor
• Peaches: Select ripe but firm peaches that yield slightly to gentle pressure
• Seedless cucumber: Adds refreshing crunch and hydration to balance the rich cheese
• Grape or cherry tomatoes: These smaller varieties provide bursts of concentrated sweetness
• Red onion: Adds a gentle bite that cuts through the richness of the cheese
• Fresh basil leaves: The aromatic heart of any caprese salad use the freshest you can find
• Kosher salt and pepper: Enhances all the flavors but especially important for the tomatoes
• Balsamic glaze: Provides sweet acidity that ties all the ingredients together

Step-by-Step Instructions

Arrange the Base:

Layer the sliced tomatoes and mozzarella in an alternating pattern around the outer edge of your platter. This creates a beautiful foundation and traditional caprese pattern that immediately signals to guests what kind of salad they're about to enjoy.

Add the Supporting Cast:

Place the peach slices, cucumber pieces, halved grape tomatoes, and red onion slices in the center of the platter, creating height and visual interest. I like to fold some of the cucumber slices to create dimension rather than laying everything flat.

Finish with Herbs and Seasoning:

Scatter fresh basil leaves generously throughout the salad, tucking some between the cheese and tomato slices and letting others rest on top. The vibrant green color against the red tomatoes and white cheese creates that classic Italian flag appearance. Season everything with a generous sprinkle of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Drizzle and Serve:

Finish the salad with a light drizzling of balsamic glaze in a zigzag pattern across the entire platter. The dark glaze creates beautiful contrast against the bright ingredients. Serve immediately while everything is at its freshest.

Save

The secret to this salad's success is truly in the quality of ingredients. I discovered the magic of adding peaches one summer when my neighbor shared some from her tree. The unexpected sweetness perfectly complements the acidity of the tomatoes and the richness of the mozzarella.

Making Your Own Balsamic Glaze

Store bought balsamic glaze works perfectly, but making your own is surprisingly simple and allows you to control the sweetness. Simply simmer 1 cup of balsamic vinegar with 2 tablespoons of honey over medium low heat for about 15 minutes until reduced by half and syrupy. The homemade version has a more complex flavor that really elevates this simple salad to restaurant quality status.

Seasonal Variations

This salad celebrates summer produce, but you can adapt it year round. In spring, try adding strawberries instead of peaches. For fall, substitute thinly sliced apples or pears. Winter versions work beautifully with roasted beets or citrus segments. The versatile formula of fresh cheese, fruit, vegetables, and herbs works with whatever is in season.

Save

Serving Suggestions

This colorful caprese shines as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish, but can easily become the main attraction for a light lunch. I often serve it with crusty artisan bread to soak up the delicious juices that collect on the platter. For a more substantial meal, add grilled shrimp or chicken on top, or serve alongside a simple pasta with olive oil and garlic.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this caprese salad ahead of time?

It's best to assemble this salad shortly before serving to maintain the texture and freshness. However, you can prep all ingredients up to 4 hours ahead and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and add the balsamic glaze just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for peaches if they're not in season?

When peaches aren't available, try using strawberries, nectarines, or additional tomatoes. For a different twist, mangoes can also work well with the mozzarella and balsamic flavors.

→ Is there a difference between balsamic glaze and balsamic vinegar?

Yes, balsamic glaze is thicker and sweeter than regular balsamic vinegar. It's been reduced to create a syrupy consistency. If you only have balsamic vinegar, you can make your own glaze by simmering 1 cup of vinegar with 2 tablespoons of honey until reduced by half.

→ What main dishes pair well with this salad?

This fresh salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or steak. It also complements pasta dishes, risotto, or a simple pizza. For a vegetarian meal, serve alongside crusty bread and other antipasti items.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

While fresh mozzarella is traditional for caprese, you could substitute burrata for an even creamier texture, or try a mild feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. The cheese should be mild enough to complement the fruits and vegetables.

→ How long will leftovers keep in the refrigerator?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days, though the texture will soften and the basil may darken. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be chopped and mixed into pasta or grain bowls.