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This fresh and simple Caprese Salad is made with ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and finished with a rich balsamic drizzle. A classic Italian Caprese salad that’s light, delicious, and perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Who doesn’t love a good Caprese Salad? It’s one of those classic dishes that’s as simple as it is delicious, especially in the warmer months when fresh produce is at its peak. Made with creamy fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, fragrant chopped basil, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and a touch of rich balsamic drizzle, this salad is finished with just a sprinkle of salt and pepper to bring it all together. Light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, it’s the perfect appetizer or side salad for any occasion.
What You’ll Need
Making a classic Caprese Salad couldn’t be easier. With just a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients, you’ll have a dish that’s simple yet packed with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Fresh Tomatoes – Use ripe, juicy tomatoes such as heirloom, Roma, beefsteak, or tomatoes on the vine for the best flavor.
- Fresh Mozzarella – A mozzarella ball or wheel, sliced into even rounds, works perfectly. Look for whole milk mozzarella for extra creaminess.
- Fresh Basil – A handful of fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped or torn, adds brightness and a burst of herb flavor.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A good-quality olive oil enhances the richness of the mozzarella and balances the tomatoes.
- Balsamic Glaze – Drizzle over the top for a sweet, tangy finish. You can also substitute with balsamic vinegar or make your own glaze.
- Salt & Pepper – Just a sprinkle to bring all the flavors together.
Tools Used For This Recipe
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How to Make Caprese Salad with Balsamic Drizzle
Making a classic Italian Caprese Salad couldn’t be easier. With just a few fresh ingredients—juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze—you can put together a light and refreshing side or appetizer in minutes. Here’s how to assemble the perfect Caprese Salad at home:
Step 1: Prep the ingredients
Slice the tomatoes into even rounds and cut the fresh mozzarella into slices about the same thickness. Give the basil leaves a rough chop.
Step 2: Assemble the salad
On a serving platter, layer the tomato and mozzarella slices, slightly overlapping them for a traditional Caprese presentation. Sprinkle with the fresh basil, then drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a generous balsamic drizzle (or balsamic vinegar). Finish with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
How to Serve Caprese Salad
Caprese salad is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re making it as a quick snack or serving it at a gathering, the fresh flavors of mozzarella, tomato, basil, and balsamic drizzle make it a perfect fit for any occasion.
- At Summer BBQs or Gatherings – Fresh and colorful, Caprese salad makes the perfect side dish for a summer barbecue or potluck. Its simplicity and bold flavors balance grilled favorites and other hearty dishes.
- As an Appetizer – Serve Caprese salad as a light starter to kick off your meal. Its fresh and vibrant flavors wake up the palate without being too heavy.
- As a Light Lunch – Pair your Caprese salad with some crusty bread for dipping, or enjoy it on its own for a refreshing mid-day meal.
- As a Side Salad with Dinner – This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish. It also complements pasta dishes such as spaghetti, lasagna, or baked ziti.
Recipe Notes & Tips
- Storage: Caprese salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Keep in mind the tomatoes will release juices, so the salad may lose some of its crispness.
- Best Tomatoes to Use: Heirloom, Roma, beefsteak, or tomatoes on the vine all make great choices. Ripe, in-season tomatoes will give you the freshest, most flavorful salad.
- Mozzarella: A wheel of fresh mozzarella offers the creamiest texture and richest flavor. Fresh mozzarella balls (like bocconcini or ciliegine) work well too.
- Balsamic Glaze Swap: If you don’t have balsamic glaze, drizzle with balsamic vinegar or make your own glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar until thickened and syrupy.
Variations & Add-Ins:
- Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or drizzle with pesto for more flavor.
- Try swapping the mozzarella for creamy burrata.
- Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
- Layer in thin slices of prosciutto for a salty, savory twist.
More Healthy Side Dishes
- Roasted Garlic and Parmesan Potatoes
- Spicy Pickled Cucumbers with Chili Oil
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad with Maple Glazed Walnuts
- Healthy Grilled Veggie Skewers
Caprese Salad with Balsamic Drizzle (Fresh, Simple & Delicious)
Ingredients
- 2-3 large tomatoes heirloom, tomatoes on the vine, beefsteak or Roma
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella sliced
- ⅓ cup basil chopped
- extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
- balsamic glaze for drizzling
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella, then roughly chop the basil. Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices on a serving platter, slightly overlapping for a nice presentation.
- Sprinkle with fresh basil, then drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Storage: Caprese salad is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep in mind the tomatoes will release juices, so the salad may not be as crisp after storing.
- Best Tomatoes to Use: Heirloom, Roma, beefsteak, or tomatoes on the vine all work beautifully. Choose ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Mozzarella: Use a wheel of fresh mozzarella for the creamiest texture and richest flavor. Fresh mozzarella balls (like bocconcini) also work if that’s what you have on hand.
- Balsamic Glaze Swap: If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can drizzle with balsamic vinegar instead. Or, make your own glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar until it reduces into a thick, syrupy consistency.
