Watermelon Caprese Salad

Name: Watermelon Caprese Salad
Ingredients: 12 slices watermelon cut into rounds or squares approximately 3 inches wide and ½ inch thick*; ½ cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons honey; ½ pound fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 12 slices (we used skim); Dash salt and pepper; ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, loosely chopped; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; Basil (for garnish)

Have Made It

Individual serving of watermelon caprese salad, topped with balsamic and fresh basil, on a white round plate.

Overhead shot of ingredients that make up the watermelon caprese salad consisting of a whole watermelon, mozzarella rounds, basil, balsamic, oil, salt and pepper.

Round slice of watermelon on a cutting board with three round watermelon cut outs

Watermelon and mozzarella cheese cut in rounds alternating on a white plate.

Watermelon Caprese Salad topped with basil and pepper on a platter with a blue and white striped napkin.

Watermelon is a great substitute for tomatoes in this traditional Italian appetizer. Serve on a single dish for a simple, family-style appetizer.

Yields

12 servings

Ingredients

12 slices watermelon cut into rounds or squares approximately 3 inches wide and ½ inch thick*
½ cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
½ pound fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 12 slices (we used skim)
Dash salt and pepper
¼ cup fresh basil leaves, loosely chopped
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Basil (for garnish)

Instructions

Place the watermelon slices on paper towels and cover with additional paper towels to absorb some of the excess fluid.
In a small saucepan over medium heat, add the vinegar and honey. Stir to blend, bring to a simmer and reduce heat. Stirring occasionally until the mixture has reduced by almost half. (Do not let reduce to far or to froth). Set aside to cool slightly.
On a large platter, place the watermelon slices and top each with a slice of cheese. Salt and pepper, then sprinkle the basil leaves evenly over the top. Drizzle with the olive oil followed by the reduced balsamic vinegar. Garnish with basil.