The Mozzarella Caprese Salad is a timeless Italian classic that combines just a few fresh ingredients to create a light and flavorful dish. With creamy mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze, this salad is perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a refreshing light lunch. It’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses only a handful of simple, fresh ingredients
- No cooking required—ready in 10 minutes
- Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian
- Elegant and colorful presentation
- Perfect for summer or year-round entertaining
- A healthy and satisfying side or starter
- Great for showcasing homegrown tomatoes or basil
- Easily customizable with added toppings
- Light, fresh, and bursting with flavor
- Pairs perfectly with Italian or Mediterranean meals
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh mozzarella (sliced or mozzarella balls)
- Ripe tomatoes (heirloom or Roma)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- Balsamic glaze or vinegar
- Salt
- Black pepper
directions
- Slice the mozzarella and tomatoes into ¼-inch thick slices.
- Arrange on a plate or platter, alternating between tomato and mozzarella slices.
- Tuck whole basil leaves in between each slice or scatter over the top.
- Drizzle generously with olive oil and a light drizzle of balsamic glaze or vinegar.
- Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, or chill briefly before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people as an appetizer or side.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Add Avocado: Layer in thin slices of avocado for a creamy twist.
- Use Cherry Tomatoes: Halve cherry or grape tomatoes and serve in a bowl with mini mozzarella balls.
- Pesto Drizzle: Add a swirl of pesto instead of or along with balsamic glaze.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili oil for heat.
- Grilled Version: Grill the tomatoes and mozzarella for a warm, smoky flavor.
- Burrata Swap: Use burrata instead of mozzarella for an ultra-creamy texture.
- Skewers Style: Serve on toothpicks or skewers for a fun party appetizer.
- Arugula Base: Serve over a bed of arugula for a more filling salad.
storage/reheating
- Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
- Reheating: Not recommended, as the ingredients are meant to be served cold or at room temperature.
- Make Ahead: Slice ingredients and store separately, then assemble just before serving to maintain freshness.
FAQs
What kind of mozzarella is best for Caprese salad?
Fresh mozzarella, either in log form or mozzarella balls, offers the best flavor and texture.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is highly recommended for the best flavor. Dried basil doesn’t offer the same freshness.
What tomatoes are best for this salad?
Heirloom, Roma, or vine-ripened tomatoes are ideal. Use the ripest, most flavorful ones you can find.
Is balsamic glaze necessary?
No, but it adds a lovely sweetness and visual appeal. You can use balsamic vinegar as a substitute.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can slice the ingredients ahead, but it’s best assembled just before serving to keep it fresh.
What can I serve with Caprese salad?
It pairs well with grilled meats, pasta, crusty bread, or as part of an appetizer spread.
Can I use vegan cheese?
Yes, plant-based mozzarella alternatives can be used to make this salad vegan.
How do I keep the basil from wilting?
Add the basil just before serving and avoid refrigerating the fully assembled salad for too long.
Is this salad low-carb?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and a good choice for those following a low-carb lifestyle.
Can I serve it warm?
Caprese salad is traditionally served cold or at room temperature, but you can lightly grill the components for a warm variation.
Conclusion
The Mozzarella Caprese Salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients and simple preparation. Whether you’re making it for a dinner party or a quick lunch, this classic dish is always a crowd-pleaser. Light, healthy, and full of flavor, it’s a recipe that brings a touch of elegance and freshness to any meal.
Description
Fresh, simple, and full of flavor—this classic mozzarella Caprese salad is made with juicy tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze. It’s the perfect appetizer or side dish for any Italian-inspired meal and comes together in minutes.
-
Arrange slices: On a serving plate, alternate and layer slices of tomato and mozzarella in a circle or row.
-
Add basil: Tuck whole basil leaves between the tomato and mozzarella slices.
-
Drizzle and season: Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
-
Serve: Serve immediately as a starter, side dish, or light lunch.
Notes
-
Use heirloom tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
-
Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or crushed red pepper for a twist.
-
For best results, use high-quality mozzarella and extra virgin olive oil.
