Fresh, simple, and beautifully balanced, Caprese Salad is one of Italy’s most iconic dishes. With ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, this recipe is all about showcasing quality ingredients in the most delicious way.
Whether you’re serving it as a starter, a light lunch, or a summer side dish, Caprese salad never fails to impress. The vibrant colors, contrasting textures, and the sweet tang of balsamic glaze elevate this traditional recipe into something truly special.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian / Mediterranean
Ingredients
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Ripe Tomatoes: 1½ lbs (3–4 medium), sliced into ¼” thick rounds
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Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: 12–16 oz, sliced into ¼” thick rounds
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Fresh Basil Leaves: ⅓ cup, whole
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Extra Virgin Olive Oil: For drizzling
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Sea Salt: To taste
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Black Pepper: To taste
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Balsamic Glaze: 2 tablespoons (or more, to taste)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
Step 1: Choose the Right Tomatoes
Start with ripe, juicy tomatoes. Heirloom, vine-ripened, or beefsteak tomatoes are ideal. Wash and slice them into ¼-inch rounds.
Perfect tomatoes are essential for flavor. They should be deep red, slightly soft to the touch, and bursting with juice.
Step 2: Slice the Mozzarella
Use fresh mozzarella, either in a log or ball form (not shredded or low-moisture types). Cut it into ¼-inch slices, about the same thickness as the tomatoes.
Buffalo mozzarella or burrata can also be used for an ultra-creamy variation.
Step 3: Layer the Salad
On a large platter or individual plates, alternate slices of tomato and mozzarella, slightly overlapping each piece. Tuck a fresh basil leaf between each slice.
Arrange in a circular or linear pattern for a beautiful presentation.
Step 4: Season and Drizzle
Sprinkle the layered salad with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, followed by balsamic glaze. You can use store-bought glaze or make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar until syrupy.
Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and best texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 4 servings)
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Calories: 230
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Protein: 11g
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Fat: 17g
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Carbohydrates: 6g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 4g
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Calcium: 20% DV
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Vitamin A: 22% DV
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Vitamin C: 28% DV
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Iron: 5% DV
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
The Caprese salad, or Insalata Caprese, originates from the Isle of Capri in southern Italy. Designed to represent the Italian flag with its red, white, and green colors, the dish celebrates the principles of Italian cuisine—fresh ingredients, simplicity, and seasonality.
Over time, it has become a beloved international appetizer, commonly featured in Italian restaurants, summer menus, and health-conscious kitchens around the globe. The addition of balsamic glaze is a modern twist that adds a sweet depth to the classic flavor.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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Light and Fresh: Ideal for hot summer days or as a refreshing appetizer
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Quick to Prepare: Just 10 minutes from start to finish
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No Cooking Required: All you need is a knife and a platter
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Gluten-Free and Low Carb: Great for those with dietary restrictions
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Elegant Presentation: Perfect for dinner parties and gatherings
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Balanced Flavor: Creamy, acidic, sweet, and savory in one bite
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Customizable: Easy to modify based on what you have on hand
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Kid-Friendly: Mild flavors and familiar ingredients
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Pairs Well with Everything: From grilled meats to pasta
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Meal Prep Friendly: Can be assembled ahead with some smart tweaks
Health Benefits
This recipe is as nutritious as it is delicious, offering several important health benefits:
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Tomatoes: Rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health and reduced cancer risk
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Mozzarella: Provides calcium, protein, and vitamin B12 for bone and muscle health
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Basil: Contains anti-inflammatory compounds and natural essential oils
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Olive Oil: Offers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants
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Balsamic Vinegar: May support blood sugar control and digestive health
Caprese salad is naturally low in carbs, gluten-free, and keto-friendly, making it suitable for many dietary lifestyles.
Serving Suggestions
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As an Appetizer: Serve on a large platter before a pasta or meat course
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With Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up olive oil and balsamic glaze
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On Skewers: Make Caprese kabobs for parties or BBQs
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With Prosciutto: Add thinly sliced prosciutto for extra protein and saltiness
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Next to Grilled Meats: Complements steak, chicken, or fish beautifully
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With Soup: Pairs well with minestrone or tomato basil soup
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As a Picnic Salad: Pack in a sealed container with dressing on the side
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For Brunch: Serve with eggs or frittata on a sunny breakfast table
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Inside a Sandwich: Layer between toasted ciabatta or focaccia
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On a Charcuterie Board: Use mini mozzarella balls and cherry tomatoes for snacking
Cooking Tips
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Use High-Quality Ingredients: This salad relies on the freshness of its components
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Don’t Refrigerate Tomatoes: Store at room temperature for optimal flavor
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Dry Mozzarella Before Layering: Pat with a paper towel to avoid sogginess
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Add Balsamic Last: Drizzle right before serving to avoid color bleed
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Make Balsamic Glaze: Reduce ½ cup balsamic vinegar over low heat until thickened
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Use a Serrated Knife: Helps slice tomatoes cleanly without mashing
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Chill Mozzarella for Clean Cuts: Slightly firm cheese slices more easily
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Add Cracked Pepper Generously: Balances the sweet glaze
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Arrange on White Plates: The colors pop more vibrantly
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Slice Evenly: Helps ensure each bite includes all ingredients
Variations to Try
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Caprese Skewers: Alternate cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella balls on toothpicks
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Pesto Drizzle: Swap balsamic glaze with basil pesto for a herbaceous twist
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Peach Caprese: Replace some tomatoes with fresh peach slices in summer
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Avocado Caprese: Add slices of creamy avocado for a heartier version
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Burrata Caprese: Use burrata cheese instead of mozzarella for extra creaminess
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Grilled Tomato Caprese: Lightly char tomato slices before assembling
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Heirloom Caprese: Use multi-colored heirloom tomatoes for a beautiful presentation
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Caprese Pasta Salad: Add cooked pasta for a complete meal
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Caprese Flatbread: Layer on naan or flatbread and broil until warm
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Spicy Caprese: Add chili flakes or a drizzle of hot honey for heat
Conclusion
Simple, fresh, and endlessly versatile, this Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze is a timeless recipe that always delivers. It’s proof that with just a few high-quality ingredients, you can create a dish that’s elegant enough for entertaining, yet easy enough for a weekday lunch.
Whether you’re hosting guests or preparing a solo snack, this salad offers that perfect bite of fresh tomato, creamy cheese, bright basil, and sweet balsamic—it’s sunshine on a plate.
Make it once, and you’ll keep coming back to it all year long.
FAQ
1. Can I make Caprese salad ahead of time?
Yes, assemble without the balsamic and olive oil. Cover and refrigerate for up to 4 hours. Drizzle just before serving.
2. What kind of tomatoes work best?
Heirloom, vine-ripened, or beefsteak tomatoes are ideal for flavor and size.
3. Is balsamic glaze the same as balsamic vinegar?
No. Balsamic glaze is a reduced, syrupy version of balsamic vinegar and is sweeter.
4. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is strongly recommended. Dried basil lacks the vibrant flavor and texture.
5. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! It’s low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats and protein.
6. Can I use vegan mozzarella?
Yes, plant-based mozzarella works well for a dairy-free option.
7. What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?
Make it by simmering balsamic vinegar on low until reduced by half, or use balsamic vinegar for a sharper taste.
8. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Tomatoes may release water, so best enjoyed fresh.
9. Can I turn this into a main dish?
Yes! Serve with quinoa, grilled chicken, or pasta to make it a full meal.
10. What wine pairs well with Caprese salad?
Try a chilled Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or a light rosé for a refreshing match.