Caprese Salad Recipe
This refreshing Caprese Salad is the ultimate summer dish—bright, juicy tomatoes paired with creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil, all drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
It’s simple, fresh, and perfect for showcasing the season’s best produce in just minutes.
Whether as a side or a light main, this salad will have everyone coming back for more!
For Caprese Salad
- Tomatoes – Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor. Heirloom or beefsteak tomatoes work particularly well.
- Fresh Mozzarella – Choose high-quality, whole-milk mozzarella for a creamy texture that complements the juicy tomatoes.
- Fresh Basil – Adds a fragrant, herbal kick that balances the richness of the mozzarella.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – A drizzle of this olive oil enhances the freshness and depth of the salad.
- Balsamic Glaze – Adds a touch of sweetness and tang to balance the flavors of the tomatoes and mozzarella.
- Flaky Sea Salt – A sprinkle of flaky sea salt brings out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
Caprese Salad Recipe
Notes
Ingredients:
- 3 to 4 medium ripe tomatoes (about 1 1/2 pounds), sliced 1/4-inch thick
- 1 pound fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch-thick rounds
- 1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves
- Flaky sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Instructions:
-
Arrange the Tomatoes and Mozzarella:
Alternate tomato and mozzarella slices on a platter in a visually appealing pattern. -
Add the Basil:
Scatter the fresh basil leaves over the arranged slices. -
Season the Salad:
Sprinkle generously with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. -
Drizzle and Serve:
Evenly drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze. Serve immediately.
Tips:
- Tomatoes: Look for ripe, seasonal tomatoes for the best flavor. Varieties like heirloom, beefsteak, or cherry tomatoes work wonderfully.
- Mozzarella: Use fresh, whole-milk mozzarella for a rich, creamy taste.
- Balsamic Glaze: Balsamic glaze adds a perfect sweet and tangy finish. You can either make your own or purchase it from the store.
Pairings:
- Zucchini Butter Pasta
- Grilled Chicken Thighs
- Pesto Pasta
- Grilled Corn on the Cob
Nutrition
Calories: 458 kcal | Carbohydrates: 10.8g | Protein: 26.1g | Fat: 35.0g | Saturated Fat: 18.7g | Sodium: 815.1mg | Fiber: 2.1g | Sugar: 6.4g |
- What kind of tomatoes should I use for the best flavor?
Go for ripe, in-season tomatoes. Heirloom, beefsteak, or even cherry tomatoes work wonders! Just make sure they’re juicy and fragrant for that perfect bite.
- Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella instead of fresh?
For the best texture and taste, fresh mozzarella is the way to go. Pre-shredded mozzarella doesn’t melt as smoothly and can lack the creamy richness you want in a Caprese.
- Can I make the salad ahead of time?
It’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh, especially the basil. You can slice the tomatoes and mozzarella ahead of time and assemble quickly when ready!
- Do I need to use balsamic glaze?
Balsamic glaze adds a lovely touch of sweetness and tang, but if you don’t have any, you can easily substitute with a drizzle of regular balsamic vinegar or just skip it. It’s still delicious!
- How do I make the flavors pop more?
A pinch of flaky sea salt and a generous drizzle of good-quality extra-virgin olive oil are all you need to elevate the flavors. Don’t skip these key elements—they bring everything together!
