There’s nothing quite like the fresh, vibrant flavors of a classic Caprese Salad. This Italian dish is a celebration of simplicity, featuring ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Perfect for any occasion, this salad is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Caprese Salad is one of those recipes that highlights the importance of quality ingredients. When you have ripe, juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, you don’t need much else to create a spectacular dish. The balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, perfectly balancing the flavors.
What I love most about this salad is its versatility. It’s a fantastic starter, side dish, or even a light main course. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a holiday gathering, or simply enjoying a quiet meal at home, Caprese Salad is always a crowd-pleaser. So, let’s dive into this classic recipe and bring a taste of Italy to your table.
Quick and Easy Caprese Salad
This Caprese Salad is a breeze to make and highlights the best of summer’s bounty. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a stunning and delicious dish ready in minutes. The combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil is a timeless favorite.
Why try this recipe?
Because it’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary. It’s a dish that’s both elegant and effortless, making it ideal for any occasion.
A Family Favorite
In our household, Caprese Salad is more than just a dish; it’s a tradition. I remember the first time I made it for my family. The fresh, vibrant colors and the burst of flavors were an instant hit. My husband, who usually prefers more substantial dishes, was pleasantly surprised by how satisfying this simple salad could be. The kids loved it too, especially with a little extra balsamic glaze drizzled on top.
Since then, Caprese Salad has become a staple at our family dinners and gatherings. It’s a go-to recipe for when we want something light, fresh, and delicious. Whether we’re enjoying it as a side dish or a light main course, it never fails to bring smiles to our faces.
Why This Caprese Salad?
The Perfect Combination of Freshness and Flavor
- Unique: A timeless Italian classic that’s always in style.
- Ingredients: Simple, high-quality ingredients.
- Flavors: Fresh, vibrant, and perfectly balanced.
Tips
- Ingredient Quality: Use the freshest tomatoes, high-quality mozzarella, and fragrant basil for the best results.
- Balsamic Glaze: Make your own balsamic glaze by reducing balsamic vinegar over low heat until thickened, if you prefer.
- Serving: For an elegant presentation, arrange the salad on a white platter to highlight the vibrant colors.
Substitutions and Variations
- Cheese: Substitute buffalo mozzarella or burrata for a creamier texture.
- Tomatoes: Use heirloom tomatoes for a colorful and flavorful variation.
- Herbs: Add a sprinkle of oregano or thyme for extra flavor.
Make a Healthier Version
- Lower Fat: Use part-skim mozzarella to reduce the fat content.
- Lower Sodium: Skip the added salt or use a salt substitute.
- Vegan: Substitute the mozzarella with a plant-based cheese alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, but it’s best to add the basil, olive oil, and balsamic glaze just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.
Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the tomatoes might release some juice.
Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
A: Fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor and presentation, but in a pinch, you can use dried basil.
Q: How do I make my own balsamic glaze?
A: Simmer balsamic vinegar over low heat until it reduces and thickens to a syrupy consistency.
Q: What other toppings can I add?
A: Try adding sliced avocado, roasted red peppers, or a sprinkle of pine nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Q: Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of regular tomatoes?
A: Yes, cherry tomatoes work great. Simply halve them and arrange them with mini mozzarella balls.
Enjoy creating and savoring this Classic Caprese Salad, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your own variations!
Print
Caprese salad
- Total Time: 20
Description
There’s nothing quite like the fresh, vibrant flavors of a classic Caprese Salad. This Italian dish is a celebration of simplicity, featuring ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 medium tomatoes
- 8 ounces fresh whole-milk mozzarella
- 9 medium basil leaves
- ½ teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt or ¼ teaspoon of any other salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
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In a small bowl, whisk the dressing ingredients (olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard) with a small hand whisk until they emulsify into a smooth salad dressing. Set aside.
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Slice the tomatoes thinly. Aim to get a total of 10 slices.
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Using a sharp knife, slice the mozzarella thinly into 9 rounds.
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Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices on a platter, alternating and overlapping each other. Arrange the basil leaves on top.
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Sprinkle the salad with salt and pepper. Drizzle with the salad dressing. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 20
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 216
