This Low Carb Strawberry Caprese Salad is our go-to all summer long. It's made with juicy strawberries, fresh mozzarella and a simple balsamic drizzle. Every time I bring it to a picnic, someone asks for the recipe.
It's low carb, gluten-free, surprisingly filling and refreshing enough for hot days but hearty enough to keep you satisfied.
I love hearty summer salads and always try to keep a few low carb versions for when the season hits. My Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad is always another favorite to make during the summer. If you enjoy caprese salads you might enjoy this Easy Burrata Caprese Salad made with fresh burrata cheese, this Low Carb Pesto Caprese Chicken or try these Low Carb Caprese Bites for an appetizer.
More of my other low carb salads is this Low Carb Cauliflower Rice Salad, Low Carb Chicken Cobb Salad, Blueberry Cucumber Salad and this Creamy Keto Greek Salad.
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Why you'll love this Low Carb Strawberry Caprese Salad
- It's simple to make with just a few ingredients tossed together with the balsamic dressing.
- Sweet and Savory Combo - with the sweetness from the strawberries and the mozzarella cheese you have a balanced bite every time.
- Low Carb and Gluten Free - it fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle, especially for those watching their blood sugar. The simple, whole-food ingredients make it a refreshing option that supports better blood sugar balance without sacrificing flavor.
- Crowd Pleaser - it always goes first at family gatherings and picnics.
- Super Fresh - made with simple seasonal ingredients that shine.
Ingredients Needed
Made with fresh strawberries, mozzarella or bocconcini, crisp lettuce, and chopped basil, it's lightly seasoned with salt and pepper for a fresh, simple base.
Salad Ingredients:
- Fresh strawberries
- Mozzarella or bocconcini cheese
- Lettuce
- Fresh chopped basil
- Salt
- Black pepper
Balsamic Dressing Ingredients:
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Dijon mustard
- Minced garlic
- Salt
- Black pepper
* See the recipe card for a complete list of ingredients and measurements.
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Step by step instructions
How to make low carb strawberry caprese salad?
- Step 1: Make the dressing.
- Step 2: Prep the salad.
STEP 1: Make the Dressing: Add olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to a mason jar. Seal and shake well until combined. Set aside.
STEP 2: Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl or platter, layer chopped lettuce, sliced strawberries, mozzarella or bocconcini, and fresh basil. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Drizzle with the dressing just before serving, then gently toss and serve.
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh ripe strawberries, their naturally sweet and make the salad taste even better.
- Chill the dressing after making it for about 1-15 minutes.
- Assemble the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh.
Bonus Tip: Bringing it to a picnic?
Pack the ingredients separately and store the dressing in the mason jar. Toss everything together on site just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and the flavors fresh.
After tossing:
If you're not serving the salad right away, keep it on ice or in a cooler. The cheese and strawberries can soften or spoil quickly in the heat, and keeping it chilled helps maintain freshness and food safety.
Variations
- Swap the greens - Use arugula or baby spinach instead of lettuce for a peppery or tender twist.
- Add nuts - Sprinkle with chopped pecans, walnuts, or slivered almonds for added crunch.
- Use goat cheese or feta - Swap the mozzarella for a tangier flavor profile.
- Add-ins: Toss in sliced cucumber for extra crunch or avocado for creaminess (if tolerated).
- Dressing variation: Use a touch of honey or monk fruit sweetener in place of Dijon if you prefer a sweeter balsamic vinaigrette.
- Vegan alternatives: Swap mozzarella for vegan mozzarella or use cubed avocado for a creamy, dairy-free option.
What to serve with this low carb salad
- Grilled chicken skewers or drumsticks - Try these Low Carb Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Skewers or BBQ Bacon Wrapped Chicken Drumstick recipes.
- Bunless burgers - Serve with these Low Carb Jalepeno Popper Burgers.
- Keep the Italian Theme - These Low Carb Italian Chicken Cutlets are a perfect match with this salad recipe.
Storage
- Store components separately (if possible): If you haven't tossed the salad yet, keep the lettuce, strawberries, cheese, and dressing in separate containers. This keeps everything fresher and prevents sogginess.
- If already tossed: Transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate. It's best eaten within 1 day, as the lettuce may wilt and the strawberries can release extra moisture.
- Keep it chilled: Always store leftovers in the fridge. Don't leave it out for more than 1-2 hours, especially in warm weather.
Nutritional Information
Here's an approximate nutrition breakdown for 1 serving of the Low Carb Strawberry Caprese Salad with a drizzle of dressing:
- Calories: 220
- Carbs: 7g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 7g
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, prep all the ingredients and store them separately. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.
Fresh is best for texture and flavor. Frozen strawberries tend to get mushy when thawed and can water down the salad.
Yes, it can be. Just keep an eye on the portion of strawberries and the amount of balsamic vinegar used, since both contain natural sugars.
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Recipe Card
Low Carb Strawberry Caprese Salad
RECIPE VIDEO
Ingredients
Dressing Ingredients
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Salad Ingredients
- 6 cups chopped lettuce romaine or mixed greens
- 1½ cups fresh strawberries sliced
- 1½ cups mozzarella balls bocconcini, sliced
- ½ cup fresh basil chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Dressing
- Add olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to a mason jar. Seal and shake well until fully combined. Set aside.
Salad
- Wash, dry, and chop the lettuce. Place it in a large serving bowl or platter.
- Hull and slice the strawberries. Add them to the bowl with the lettuce.
- Slice the mozzarella or bocconcini if needed, and add to the salad.
- Finely chop the fresh basil and sprinkle it over the salad. Lightly season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Shake the dressing again, drizzle over the salad just before serving, and gently toss to combine. Serve immediately.
Notes
Important Information
For more information, tips and variations please review the recipe video and content above and below the recipe card.
Updates and Revisions
If the video and recipe card differ, follow the recipe card for the latest ingredients and instructions.
Nutritional Information
Nutrition info is estimated and varies by ingredients, measurements, and portions.
Nutrition
Food safety
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooked food unattended
- Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
See more food guidelines
Oscar Chimenti says
Fresh, flavorful, and super easy to make! The strawberries and balsamic dressing are the perfect combo, and it kept me full without feeling heavy. Definitely a new summer favorite.