Caprese Salad is the ultimate celebration of summer’s freshest flavors: ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, peppery basil, and a drizzle of luscious balsamic reduction. Every bite bursts with color and sunshine—this is one of those recipes that’s as delightful to assemble as it is to devour, and it’s always the star of any table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Each component shines on its own, so you truly get the freshest taste in every mouthful.
- Stunning on Any Table: The bright reds, greens, and whites make Caprese Salad just as eye-catching as it is appetizing!
- Ready in Minutes: You can pull this dish together in less than half an hour, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and elegant gatherings.
- Irresistible Balsamic Glaze: The homemade reduction delivers a rich, sweet finish you’ll crave long after the last bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in a Caprese Salad really pulls its own weight—there’s nowhere to hide, so freshness and quality are key. Let’s take a closer look at what makes every element count in this timeless dish.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Reducing the vinegar into a syrupy glaze elevates the salad’s flavors, adding a sweet tang that instantly makes it taste special.
- Ripe Tomatoes: Juicy, vibrant, and bursting with flavor—use the best you can find, preferably heirloom or on-the-vine tomatoes at peak ripeness.
- Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: Choose a high-quality, whole-milk mozzarella for milky, creamy slices that pair beautifully with tomatoes.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: These add an aromatic, peppery note and are an absolute must for Caprese Salad’s authentic taste.
- Olive Oil: Use a fruity, good-quality extra-virgin oil for drizzling—it brings everything together and adds a subtle richness.
- Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Just a pinch of each unlocks all the fresh flavors and highlights the salad’s natural sweetness.
Variations
Caprese Salad is remarkably adaptable, and that’s half the fun! Don’t hesitate to give it your own spin—these easy tweaks let you customize according to what’s in your fridge or suit any craving, dietary need, or occasion.
- Peach or Strawberry Caprese: Swap in fresh peach or strawberry slices for some of the tomato for a sweet, summery twist.
- Vegan Caprese: Use vegan mozzarella or creamy cashew cheese and you’ll still get all the wonderful contrasting textures and flavors.
- Pesto Drizzle: Add a generous spoonful of basil pesto on top for a boost of herbaceous flavor and vibrant green color.
- Grilled Caprese Salad: Quickly grill the tomato or cheese slices for a warm, melty, and slightly smoky variation that’s fabulous as an appetizer.
How to Make Caprese Salad
Step 1: Make the Balsamic Reduction
Pour the balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and bring it to a gentle boil over medium-low heat. Let it cook down until it turns syrupy—this typically takes 10 to 20 minutes, so keep a close eye (and your nose!) to avoid burning. Once it coats the back of a spoon, remove from heat and let cool; it’ll thicken as it stands.
Step 2: Slice the Tomatoes and Mozzarella
Choose a sharp knife and cut both the ripe tomatoes and the fresh mozzarella cheese into generous, even slices—aim for about 1/4-inch thick. The goal is to have them match in size for perfect layering and a gorgeous effect on the platter.
Step 3: Arrange the Salad
On a big serving platter, alternate slices of tomato and mozzarella, tucking fresh basil leaves (whole or torn, your choice!) between each. Arrange in a fan, spiral, or tidy rows—whatever makes you happy and shows off those colors.
Step 4: Drizzle, Season, and Serve
Generously drizzle extra-virgin olive oil over the salad, making sure to touch each tomato and cheese slice. Repeat this step with the cooled balsamic reduction, artfully drizzling or making swoops and swirls. Finish with a sprinkling of kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve at once, and watch it disappear!
Pro Tips for Making Caprese Salad
- Maximum Freshness: Always use tomatoes and mozzarella the day you plan to serve for the brightest, most luscious flavor.
- Chill the Balsamic: Let your balsamic glaze cool thoroughly before drizzling—it will thicken beautifully and won’t warm up the delicate cheese.
- Layer with Love: Take a little time to tuck each basil leaf just right—presentation turns Caprese Salad from simple to simply stunning.
- Season at the Last Minute: Add salt and pepper right before serving so the tomatoes stay juicy and the cheese stays fresh.
How to Serve Caprese Salad
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra torn basil on top for a burst of color or add a handful of pine nuts for gentle crunch. If you’re feeling indulgent, a little lemon zest grated over the salad creates a delightful citrus hint.
Side Dishes
Caprese Salad makes a lovely partner for crusty bread (think rustic sourdough or garlicky crostini)—perfect for mopping up those delicious juices. It also pairs beautifully with simple grilled chicken, pasta, or even a hearty steak at dinnertime.
Creative Ways to Present
Try threading mini Caprese Salad components onto skewers for party appetizers, or arrange slices in a circular pattern on a round platter for a festive “wreath” effect. You can even make a rustic Caprese “stack” using thick tomato and mozzarella rounds with plenty of basil in between for impressive height.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Caprese Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within a day, as the tomatoes can release extra juices and the cheese is most luscious when fresh.
Freezing
This salad isn’t suited for freezing—fresh tomatoes and mozzarella don’t hold up to freezing and thawing, so enjoy every last slice while it’s at its peak.
Reheating
No reheating is needed for Caprese Salad—it truly shines when served cold or at room temperature. Simply take out any leftovers and let them lose their chill before serving.
FAQs
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Can I make Caprese Salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the balsamic reduction several days in advance and slice your tomatoes and cheese a few hours before serving. For best results, assemble and season the salad just before mealtime to keep everything vibrant and fresh.
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What’s the best type of tomato for Caprese Salad?
Heirloom tomatoes or ripe, on-the-vine tomatoes are ideal for their flavor and color. Choose firm fruit with deep color and plenty of juice, but avoid overly soft or mealy tomatoes.
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Can I skip the balsamic reduction and use regular balsamic vinegar?
You can, but the reduction gives a thicker, sweeter, and richer finish. If using regular balsamic, drizzle lightly and taste before adding more as it will be tangier and less sweet than the glaze.
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Is Caprese Salad gluten-free and vegetarian?
Yes! Traditional Caprese Salad is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making it a crowd-pleasing option for a variety of eaters—just check your cheese and balsamic labels to be sure.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t tried making Caprese Salad at home yet, this is your sign to do it! It’s a gorgeous, effortless dish that brings out the very best of each ingredient. Gather some fresh tomatoes and basil, splash out on real mozzarella, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a taste of Italian sunshine any day of the year.
Print
Caprese Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 8 serving(s) 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic Caprese Salad recipe featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and a balsamic reduction drizzle, creating a simple yet elegant dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Balsamic Reduction:
- 2 cups balsamic vinegar
Salad:
- 3 ripe tomatoes, sliced thick
- 12 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced thick
- Fresh basil leaves
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Balsamic Reduction: In a small saucepan, bring the balsamic vinegar to a boil over medium-low heat. Cook until the balsamic has reduced to a thicker glaze, 10 to 20 minutes. Remove from heat and transfer to a bowl or cruet. Allow to cool.
- Salad: When ready to serve, arrange tomato and mozzarella slices on a platter. Place basil leaves between the slices. Drizzle olive oil over the salad, ensuring each slice gets some. Repeat with the balsamic reduction, creating designs if desired. Store extra reduction in the fridge. Finish with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Serve as a light lunch or as a side with dinner.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
