Pearly Strand Mozzarella Salad (Printable Page)

Mozzarella pearls and cherry tomatoes combine with arugula and balsamic for a fresh, vibrant salad.

# 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

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Arrange the baby arugula evenly on a large serving platter.
02 - Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves over the arugula.
03 - Drape the mozzarella pearls in a continuous strand or artistic curve across the salad, ensuring they rest atop the other ingredients.
04 - Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over the salad, followed by a delicate drizzle of balsamic glaze.
05 - Sprinkle flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
06 - Present immediately as a fresh, visually striking appetizer or side dish.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It comes together in 15 minutes, which means you can pull together something restaurant-quality without spending your evening in the kitchen.
  • The way those mozzarella pearls catch the light makes people think you've put in way more effort than you actually have.
  • It's proof that eating well doesn't have to be complicated—just fresh, honest ingredients arranged with intention.
02 -
  • Draining the mozzarella pearls is non-negotiable; they come packed in liquid, and if you skip this step, you'll water down your dressing and end up with a puddle instead of a salad.
  • Room temperature ingredients will wilt and lose their texture, but cold ones stay crisp—so chill your platter if you have time, and use mozzarella that's been sitting in the fridge.
  • The best time to make this is when tomatoes are actually good, which narrows it down to about three months a year; the rest of the time, you're fighting an uphill battle.
03 -
  • Use the largest, most beautiful platter you have—it makes the salad feel generous and intentional, and there's room for the eye to appreciate each element.
  • Pat your mozzarella pearls completely dry with paper towels before arranging them; this prevents them from releasing water and keeps your salad crisp throughout the meal.
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