If there’s one dish that has my heart summer after summer, it’s the Caprese Salad Recipe. Imagine thick stacks of sun-ripened tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and peppery basil leaves—all drizzled with golden olive oil and a hint of balsamic glaze. It’s a celebration of the simplest, freshest flavors, transforming just a handful of ingredients into pure Mediterranean magic. This is the salad you whip up for backyard lunches, potlucks with friends, or anytime you crave something as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t you love when you can count a recipe’s stars on one hand? Every ingredient in this Caprese Salad Recipe matters; their natural goodness is what brings out that iconic balance of taste, texture, and color. Here’s how each plays its role in this classic Italian favorite:
- Ripe tomatoes: Their juicy, sweet flesh is the true heart of this salad, so choose the very best—heirloom, vine-ripened, or whatever looks most irresistible at your farmer’s market.
- Fresh mozzarella: Rich and milky, this cheese adds luxurious creaminess and a subtle tang that perfectly cradles the tomatoes.
- Fresh basil: Those fragrant green leaves don’t just add color—they bring a burst of peppery freshness and classic Italian aroma.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Use your favorite high-quality bottle to finish the salad with a fruity, golden drizzle that ties all the flavors together.
- Sea salt: A sprinkle draws out the maximum flavor from the tomatoes and cheese.
- Black pepper: Just a touch for a hint of gentle heat and contrast.
- Balsamic glaze (optional): For a sweet-tart finish that adds depth and a gorgeous glossy look—it’s optional, but I highly recommend it for a modern twist.
How to Make Caprese Salad Recipe
Step 1: Slice the Tomatoes and Mozzarella
Start by slicing your ripe tomatoes and fresh mozzarella into generous, even rounds about 1/4-inch thick. The goal is to make sure each slice has enough heft to stand up on the platter while showing off the juicy centers. This way, every forkful gets an irresistible bite of both.
Step 2: Layer with Basil for Color and Aroma
Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices on your favorite serving plate, alternating between the two so the colors pop. As you go, slip whole basil leaves between the layers, tucking them in so you see the deep green peeking out. The rich aroma will tempt everyone even before you drizzle anything on top!
Step 3: Season and Drizzle
Once you’ve assembled your masterpiece, it’s time for the finishing touches. Just before serving, sprinkle sea salt and black pepper generously over the whole salad. Next, drizzle extra virgin olive oil with a loose hand so it pools gently on the plate and glistens over the cheese and tomatoes. If you’re a fan, add a final artful zigzag of balsamic glaze for richness and a touch of sweetness that makes this Caprese Salad Recipe even more memorable.
How to Serve Caprese Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Let’s make your Caprese Salad Recipe look as stunning as it tastes! I love adding a few extra small basil leaves right on top for a fresh pop of color. If you want to get extra fancy, sprinkle on some flaky sea salt or a few cracks of fresh black pepper just before serving—these tiny flourishes make the plate irresistible.
Side Dishes
This salad is a natural match for so many mains. I often serve it with grilled meats, simple pastas, or a crisp loaf of rustic bread to mop up those flavorful juices. The Caprese Salad Recipe shines as a starter or a side, balancing richer dishes with its cool, refreshing bite.
Creative Ways to Present
There are endless ways to have fun with your presentation! Try stacking the salad high like a tower, turning it into bruschetta bites atop toasted baguette slices, or arranging it in colorful concentric circles. For parties, make individual skewers with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves for a portable twist on the Caprese Salad Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extras (which is rare in my house!), cover the salad tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to a day, though the tomatoes may release more juice as it sits, softening the cheese a bit. For best results, enjoy sooner rather than later.
Freezing
Unfortunately, the Caprese Salad Recipe does not freeze well. Tomatoes and mozzarella both lose texture and flavor after thawing, so it’s definitely a dish that’s meant to be savored fresh.
Reheating
This salad is all about those cool, bright ingredients—so skip reheating. If you took it out of the fridge, let it return to room temperature for the best texture and flavor before serving again.
FAQs
What kind of tomatoes work best in this Caprese Salad Recipe?
Opt for ripe, flavorful tomatoes—heirloom or vine-ripened varieties are especially wonderful for their sweetness and color. If you can’t find those, even cherry tomatoes will do in a pinch!
Can I use dried basil if fresh isn’t available?
Fresh basil is a signature element in the Caprese Salad Recipe, lending both aroma and vibrant taste. Dried basil doesn’t offer the same burst of flavor or color, so fresh is well worth seeking out.
Is balsamic glaze necessary?
Nope! The traditional Caprese Salad Recipe is made without it, but a drizzle of glaze adds a hint of sweetness and a modern flourish. It’s completely optional and up to your taste buds.
How long can I prep Caprese Salad Recipe in advance?
If you need to get ahead, slice the tomatoes and mozzarella and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for a day. Assemble and season just before serving for maximum freshness and texture.
What’s the best way to transport this salad?
For picnics or potlucks, assemble the salad on-site if possible to avoid sogginess. If that’s not an option, layer everything in a container, keep liquids separate, and dress just before serving—your Caprese Salad Recipe will stay stunning and delicious!
Final Thoughts
I truly believe that everyone needs a dish like the Caprese Salad Recipe in their back pocket: a delicious, beautiful way to celebrate the peak of summer produce (or enjoy a taste of sunshine any time). If you make this, I’d love to hear how it turned out or what creative twists you try—happy salad making, and buon appetito!
Print
Caprese Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic Caprese salad recipe that showcases ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for a light and refreshing appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
Tomato Layer:
- 1 1/2 lbs Ripe tomatoes (3–4 medium, sliced 1/4” thick)
Cheese Layer:
- 12–16 oz Fresh mozzarella (sliced 1/4” thick)
Basil Layer:
- 1 bunch Fresh basil (1/3 cup basil leaves)
Seasoning and Drizzle:
- 3 Tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp Sea salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper (or to taste)
- 2 Tbsp Balsamic glaze (or added to taste, optional)
Instructions
- Layer Tomatoes: Start by layering slices of tomatoes on a serving platter. Tuck slices of cheese between each tomato so both are visible, then tuck whole basil leaves between the cheese and tomatoes. Arrange the slices so you can see every layer.
- Season and Serve: Just before serving, season generously with salt and pepper, drizzle all over with extra virgin olive oil, and drizzle with balsamic glaze or add it to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Layering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
