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Easy Panera Bread Summer Strawberry Caprese Salad Recipe

Panera Bread Summer Strawberry Caprese Salad Recipe

There’s something exhilarating about summer. The sun shines brighter, the days stretch longer, and fresh produce floods the markets. 
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Panera Bread Summer Strawberry Caprese Salad Recipe
Servings: 2 Servings
Calories: 250kcal
Author: Bex Smith

Equipment

  • large bowl

Ingredients

  • 2 cups chopped crisp romaine lettuce
  • 2 cups tender baby arugula
  • 4 ounces mini fresh mozzarella balls also called bocconcini
  • 1 cup ripe sliced strawberries
  • 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
  • 10 fresh basil leaves thinly chiffonade
  • 1 tablespoon toasted pine nuts new addition for a nutty crunch
  • 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey new addition to balance flavors with a touch of sweetness
  • A pinch of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • Balsamic glaze for drizzling to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

  • Collect all your ingredients on the counter. This step not only organizes your kitchen but makes cooking feel a bit like a culinary adventure.

Step 2: Prepare Your Greens

  • Start by washing the romaine lettuce and arugula thoroughly. Rinse, then dry using a salad spinner if you have one. If not, pat them dry gently with paper towels. This prevents watery salad dressing.

Step 3: Slice Strawberries and Tomatoes

  • Next, slice your strawberries and halve the cherry tomatoes. Aim for uniform sizes; this ensures an even blend of flavors with every forkful.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

  • In a large bowl, combine your romaine and arugula. Add the sliced strawberries, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls. Gently toss them together. You want everything to be evenly distributed without crushing the delicate ingredients.

Step 5: Add Fresh Basil and Nuts

  • Sprinkle the fresh basil leaves and toasted pine nuts over the salad. The basil not only adds flavor but also releases a lovely fragrance.

Step 6: Drizzle with Dressing

  • In a small bowl, mix the olive oil and honey. Drizzle this over your salad, followed by a few pinches of sea salt and cracked black pepper. Finally, top it off with a balsamic glaze drizzle for a beautiful finish.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

  • Serve immediately, or chill for a few minutes to let the flavors meld. This salad is best enjoyed fresh but still tastes great after a little refrigeration.

Notes

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for the freshest produce. This makes a remarkable difference in flavor.
Balsamic Reduction: For added depth, consider simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens into a syrup. It adds an intense flavor profile.
Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella is classic, try goat cheese or feta for a different taste.
Add Crunch: For an extra crunch, consider adding sliced radishes or crunchy cucumber.
Make Ahead: Prepare the ingredients in advance, but dress the salad right before serving. This ensures the greens stay crisp.

Nutrition

Calories: 250kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!