Melon Caprese Salad

Melon Caprese Salad combines melons, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, drizzled with a honey-lime dressing for a refreshing summer side.

Melon caprese salad is a delightful and refreshing twist on the classic Caprese salad. This vibrant dish combines the sweetness of ripe melon with the creaminess of fresh mozzarella, and the aromatic flavour of fresh basil.

The salad is finished with a drizzle of honey-lime dressing, creating a perfect balance of sweet, savoury, and tangy flavours.

Easy to prepare and visually appealing, Melon Caprese Salad is an ideal summer dish, offering a light and colourful option for picnics, barbecues, or any casual gatherings.

Storage Instructions

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.The salad is best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness and texture.

To prevent excess moisture, you can store the melon, mozzarella, and tomatoes in separate containers and combine them just before serving.If already mixed, drain any excess liquid that accumulates at the bottom of the container before serving.

If serving the salad at a gathering, you can assemble it an hour ahead and keep it refrigerated.Stir the salad gently before serving to ensure the dressing is well distributed.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Melon – I used a combination of cantaloupe and watermelon. You could use other melons instead such as honeydew. Use only fresh melon, not frozen. If you do not have a melon baller, simply cut the melons into 1 inch chunks, roughly the same size as the bocconcini.

Bocconcini – These may also be labelled as mini mozzarella balls.

Basil – Fresh basil only. To mince, start with a chiffonade, then “dice” the ribbons into smaller pieces.

Olive oil – You can use any neutral flavoured oil, but extra virgin olive oil is best.

Limes – Use fresh limes for the best results. Bottled lime juice does not taste the same, and the zest offers loads of flavour.

Honey – You can use a liquid sweetener of your choice in place of the honey.

Looking for More Summer Sides?

Check out more of my favourite summer side dish recipes!

Our Panzanella Salad recipe is a medley of crisp, garlic-infused bread, juicy tomatoes, and cucumbers, all dressed in a zesty vinaigrette.

Whip up the perfect side dish with our Cilantro Lime Rice recipe. Packed with fresh herbs and zesty lime, this easy rice dish is irresistible.

Try our simple yet delightful Marinated Cherry Tomatoes recipe. Easy to prepare, it’s a vibrant addition to any meal, no matter the occasion.

How to Make a Melon Caprese Salad

Yields: 6 servings | Prep Time: 15 minutes  

Ingredients:

• 1 Small Cantaloupe
• 1 Mini seedless watermelon
• 8 Ounces Bocconcini (mini mozzarella balls)
• 3 Tablespoons Fresh Basil, minced

For the Lime Dressing:

• ¼ Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 medium limes, zested and juiced
• 2 Tablespoons Honey
• 1/4 Teaspoon Black Pepper
• ½ Teaspoon Salt

Directions:

In a large serving bowl whisk together the dressing ingredients. Set aside while you prepare the melons.

Using a melon baller, scoop out small spheres of watermelon and cantaloupe.

Add the melon balls and mozzarella balls to the serving bowl and toss together gently to coat with dressing. Add the minced basil and lightly toss again.

Sprinkle over with more basil, if desired, before serving.