Pearly Strand Mozzarella Salad (Printable)

A colorful mix of mozzarella pearls, cherry tomatoes, basil, and arugula dressed in olive oil and balsamic glaze.

# What You'll Need:

→ Produce

01 - 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
02 - 1 cup baby arugula
03 - 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

→ Cheese

04 - 1 cup mozzarella pearls (ciliegine), drained

→ Dressings & Oils

05 - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
06 - 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze

→ Seasonings

07 - 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

# Directions:

01 - Evenly spread the baby arugula across a large serving platter.
02 - Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves over the arugula base.
03 - Gently drape the mozzarella pearls in a continuous strand or artistic curve over the salad, ensuring they rest atop the other ingredients.
04 - Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over the arranged ingredients, followed by a delicate stream of balsamic glaze.
05 - Sprinkle flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste across the salad.
06 - Present as a fresh and visually captivating appetizer or side dish without delay.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in 15 minutes but looks like you spent hours planning it.
  • Those warm tomatoes and cool mozzarella pearls create this perfect temperature contrast that feels luxurious on your tongue.
  • It's naturally vegetarian and gluten-free, so you're not scrambling to adapt it for guests.
02 -
  • Pat your mozzarella pearls dry with paper towels before using them—any excess moisture will weep into the salad and make it watery by the time you eat it.
  • The moment you dress this salad, it begins to soften, so resist the urge to make it ahead; assemble it no more than a few minutes before serving.
03 -
  • Buy mozzarella pearls from the cheese counter rather than pre-packaged when possible—they're fresher and have a better texture.
  • If you're making this for a crowd, assemble individual plates right before serving rather than one large platter so everything stays crisp and beautiful.
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