Avocado Caprese Salad with Greek Yogurt A Fresh Twist on a Classic Dish

When it comes to healthy eating, incorporating fresh ingredients can make all the difference. One fantastic dish that brings together vibrant flavors and appealing textures is the Avocado Caprese Salad with Greek Yogurt. This modern take on the classic Caprese salad delivers a nutritious and satisfying experience. It’s a delightful choice for both a side dish and a main feature. Let’s explore the ingredients, preparation, and health benefits of this refreshing meal that is sure to impress.

The Classic Caprese Salad

Traditionally, a Caprese salad is a beautiful combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all finished with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This Italian classic is loved for its simple yet bold flavors.

By adding avocado, this version enhances not only the creaminess but also the nutritional value of the dish. Avocado contains monounsaturated fats that support heart health, along with fiber, vitamin E, and potassium. In fact, one avocado has around 300 calories, where about 70% of those calories come from healthy fats—making this salad a guilt-free treat.

Ingredients You'll Need

To prepare this Avocado Caprese Salad with Greek Yogurt, gather the following ingredients:

1/2 ripe avocado: Opt for avocados that yield slightly to pressure but are not overly soft.
1 large tomatoes: Heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes provide the best flavor and sweetness.
Fresh mozzarella cheese: Choose a high-quality mozzarella, preferably packed in water, for optimal taste.
Fresh basil leaves: Select whole leaves for maximum aroma and flavor.
1 cup Greek yogurt: Full-fat or low-fat based on your nutrition goals; Greek yogurt packs about 25 grams of protein per serving.
1 teaspoon Olive oil: Use extra virgin olive oil to enhance the salad’s flavor profile.
Balsamic vinegar: A high-quality balsamic adds a touch of sweetness and acidity.
Salt and pepper: Season to taste.

Optional Add-Ons

Enhance your salad with these additional flavors and textures:

Red onion: Thinly sliced for a slight kick and crunch.
Pine nuts or walnuts: Toasted for an extra crunch and nuttiness.
Arugula: Serve as a fresh bed underneath the salad for added greens.

Preparation Steps

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Let’s go through the preparation process step by step.

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by washing the tomatoes and basil leaves. Slice the tomatoes and avocado into wedges or cubes, based on your preference. Cut the mozzarella into bite-sized pieces.
Make the Greek Yogurt Base: In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. This creamy base will enrich the overall flavor of the salad.
Assemble the Salad: On a large serving plate, spread the Greek yogurt mixture to create a base. Layer the avocado, tomatoes, and mozzarella in a visually appealing way.
Finish with Basil and Dressing: Top with fresh basil leaves, and drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Close-up view of avocado caprese salad on top of Greek yogurt — Avocado Caprese Salad with Greek Yogurt served on a white plate

Tips for Serving

To enjoy this salad at its finest, consider these serving suggestions:

For an elegant presentation, use a ring mold to layer and shape the ingredients attractively.
Serve immediately after preparation. This ensures that the avocados remain fresh and vibrant.

Nutritional Benefits

This Avocado Caprese Salad is not just delicious; it’s also packed with health benefits.

Heart Health: The monounsaturated fats from avocados are known to support cardiovascular health. Estimates suggest that including avocados in your diet may reduce bad cholesterol levels by approximately 13.5% for people with high cholesterol.
Protein-Rich: Greek yogurt contributes a significant amount of protein, with around 10 grams per serving, helping to maintain muscle mass and keep you feeling full.
Vitamins and Minerals: The fresh tomatoes and basil bring in vitamins C and K, while avocados provide a wealth of potassium—approximately 975 mg per avocado. This combination supports various bodily functions, including immune health and hydration.

Final Thoughts

The Avocado Caprese Salad with Greek Yogurt offers a modern and healthy variation of a beloved classic. With its vibrant ingredients, it becomes not just a feast for the taste buds but also an eye-catching addition to any meal. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, side, or main dish, it is sure to impress everyone at your table.

Thanks to its easy preparation and delightful mix of flavors, this salad shines at summer get-togethers, picnics, or even as a light weeknight dinner. Try this recipe today and enjoy a refreshing twist that everyone will love!

Serves 1