Classic Caprese Salad Recipe: Fresh & Easy

Welcome to the world of vibrant flavors and effortless elegance! This classic Caprese salad is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. It’s a dish that sings with the taste of summer, requiring minimal effort for maximum deliciousness. Get ready to whip up a quick, refreshing, and absolutely delightful caprese salad that will become your new favorite warm-weather staple.

Many culinary historians trace the origins of the Caprese salad back to the island of Capri in Italy.

Why You’ll Love This Caprese Salad

You are going to adore this easy Caprese salad for so many reasons! It’s incredibly fresh and bursting with the taste of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil.

• Quick Prep: You can have this dish ready in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Minimal Ingredients: Only a few high-quality components are needed for maximum flavor.
• Versatile: Serve this alongside almost any meal, or enjoy it as a light lunch.
• Healthy & Refreshing: It’s a nutritious choice that feels light and revitalizing, especially on a hot day.

Ingredients for Perfect Caprese Salad

Crafting the perfect Caprese salad starts with choosing excellent ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this simple, yet exquisite, dish:

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, sliced in half (or grape tomatoes)
• 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine work beautifully)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil (high-quality extra virgin is best)
• 2 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano or thyme (optional, but adds a lovely depth)

Notes & Substitutions

For the best Caprese salad, ingredient choices matter. You can use mini mozzarella balls like ciliegine or bocconcini, or even slice larger fresh mozzarella. While cherry or grape tomatoes are ideal for sweetness and size, feel free to use sliced Roma tomatoes or even heirloom varieties. Always opt for fresh basil over dried for that authentic aroma and taste. If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, a good quality red wine vinegar can work, though balsamic vinegar offers a unique sweetness. Choose a good extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.

Equipment Needed

Gathering your tools before you start makes the process even smoother. You’ll need just a few basic items for this delicious Caprese salad:

• A large mixing bowl
• A sharp knife and a sturdy cutting board
• A small whisk or a fork for making the dressing

How to Make Caprese Salad (Step-by-Step)

Making this Caprese salad is incredibly straightforward, perfect for beginners and busy parents alike. Just follow these simple steps to bring this fresh dish to life:

1. Start by washing your cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Then, carefully slice each tomato in half using a sharp knife.
2. Drain any liquid from your mozzarella balls. If using larger fresh mozzarella, cube or tear it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Gently tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces. You can also give them a rough chop if you prefer.
4. In your large mixing bowl, combine the sliced tomatoes, the drained mozzarella balls, and the freshly chopped basil.
5. Now, prepare the simple dressing. In a small separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and the dried oregano or thyme until well combined.
6. Pour the prepared dressing evenly over the tomato, mozzarella, and basil mixture in the large bowl.
7. Gently toss all the ingredients together. Use a spatula or your hands to ensure everything is coated in the dressing without crushing the tomatoes or mozzarella.
8. Refrigerate your caprese salad for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
9. Before serving, give it another gentle toss. Garnish with a few extra fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired for an extra touch of elegance and flavor.

Pro Tips for the Best Caprese Salad & Troubleshooting

Achieving the perfect Caprese salad is easy with these simple tips. Always prioritize the freshest, highest quality ingredients you can find; they are the stars of this dish. Avoid over-dressing the salad, as too much liquid can overpower the delicate flavors of the tomatoes and mozzarella. For the best flavor, serve your Caprese at room temperature, as this allows the ingredients to fully express their taste. To prevent a soggy salad, dress it just before serving, especially if you are making it for a gathering. Enhance the visual appeal and add a touch of sweetness by drizzling with a good quality balsamic glaze right before serving. Finally, make sure to choose ripe, seasonal tomatoes for the sweetest and juiciest results.

Serving Suggestions, Storage & Variations

This versatile Caprese salad is perfect for so many occasions.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve it as a vibrant and light appetizer for any meal.
• Offer it as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
• It’s a fantastic addition to a summer potluck or buffet spread.
• Pair it with some crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious dressing.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Caprese salad promptly in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain the freshness of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil in this classic Caprese salad recipe. It will keep well for 1-2 days, but the basil leaves may wilt slightly over time, so enjoy your easy Italian Caprese salad within a day for peak flavor and texture.

It’s best enjoyed fresh, so try to consume leftover healthy Caprese salad within a day of preparation to avoid sogginess from juicy tomatoes.

Avoid freezing this Caprese salad recipe, as the tomatoes and fresh mozzarella will change texture upon thawing, becoming watery and less appealing.

For make-ahead ease, store components separately, undressed tomatoes and cheese last longer than assembled salad with balsamic dressing.

Delicious Variations

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a more substantial main dish.
• Incorporate other fresh vegetables like thinly sliced cucumber or avocado.
• Try swapping the dressing for a dollop of fresh pesto for a different flavor profile.
• Feature different cheeses such as creamy burrata or fresh goat cheese.
• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Caprese Salad Nutrition Facts
• This delightful Caprese salad offers a wonderful balance of fresh ingredients. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~110
Total Fat	~8g
Saturated Fat	~3g
Cholesterol	~15mg
Sodium	~200mg
Total Carbs	~6g
Fiber	~1g
Sugars	~4g
Protein	~5g

• This dish is naturally low in calories and carbohydrates, while providing healthy fats from olive oil and protein from mozzarella. Tomatoes are rich in Vitamin C and K, while basil offers antioxidants. Indeed, a recent overview from WebMD highlights the various health benefits of tomatoes, including their rich antioxidant content. It’s a fresh and light addition to any diet.
• Caprese Salad FAQs
• Got questions about making the perfect Caprese salad? We have answers!
• What kind of tomatoes are best for Caprese salad?
  Sweet cherry or grape tomatoes are ideal for their small size, sweet flavor burst, and easy halving in this easy Caprese salad recipe. Larger tomatoes like heirloom, Roma, or San Marzano also work beautifully when sliced thin, offering juicy texture and vibrant colors for a stunning Italian Caprese salad platter.​
• Should I use balsamic vinegar or glaze in Caprese salad dressing?
  Balsamic vinegar is the traditional choice for the dressing in authentic Caprese salad, providing tangy depth that balances tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. Balsamic glaze is thicker and sweeter, making it perfect for drizzling over the finished healthy Caprese salad just before serving for an elegant touch.​
• Can I make Caprese salad ahead of time?
  You can prep ingredients for Caprese salad ahead by slicing tomatoes and mozzarella up to 4 hours in advance, storing them separately in the fridge covered lightly to avoid sogginess. Assemble and dress this fresh Caprese salad recipe no more than 30 minutes before serving to keep tomatoes firm and basil vibrant for parties or picnics.​
• What is the difference between Caprese and Panzanella salad?
  Caprese salad focuses on fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and balsamic for a simple appetizer, emphasizing quality ingredients without bread. Panzanella is a Tuscan bread salad featuring stale or toasted bread soaked in dressing, plus tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, and veggies for a heartier summer dish.​
• Is Caprese salad healthy?
  Yes, this classic Caprese salad recipe is very healthy, packed with antioxidant-rich fresh tomatoes, healthy fats from olive oil and mozzarella, plus protein and vitamins from basil. It’s low-carb, keto-friendly when skipping sugary balsamic, and nutrient-dense for a refreshing side or light meal.
• Conclusion
• This classic Caprese salad is truly a culinary gem that epitomizes simplicity, freshness, and incredible taste. It’s perfect for those warm summer days when you crave something light yet satisfying. With its minimal ingredients and quick preparation, it’s an ideal recipe for busy parents and beginner cooks. We encourage you to try this delightful dish and experience the pure joy of fresh flavors. It’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen, bringing a taste of sunshine to any meal.
• WP Recipe Maker #7553remove

  A refreshing and elegant Caprese salad made with ripe cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, fragrant basil, and a tangy balsamic dressing. This quick and vibrant dish captures the flavors of summer in just 10 minutes. Course: Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean Keyword: basil tomato salad, caprese salad, easy summer salad, fresh mozzarella salad, Italian caprese – Large mixing bowl – sharp knife and cutting board – Small bowl or whisk – 1 pint cherry tomatoes, sliced in half – 1 cup mozzarella balls (ciliegine or bocconcini), drained – 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped or torn – 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar – 1/2 tsp salt – 1/4 tsp black pepper – 1/4 tsp dried oregano or thyme (optional) 1) Wash and slice cherry tomatoes in half. If using larger mozzarella, tear or cut into bite-sized pieces. Tear or chop basil leaves. 2) In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. 3) In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and oregano or thyme until well combined. 4) Pour dressing over the tomato mixture and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly without breaking them. 5) Chill the salad for 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Stir gently before serving. Garnish with extra basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired. Use the freshest ingredients you can find — they are the star of the dish. Ciliegine or bocconcini mozzarella work best, but sliced fresh mozzarella is a fine substitute. Cherry or grape tomatoes offer ideal sweetness. If you’re out of balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar works in a pinch. Add grilled chicken or avocado for a twist. calories 110 carbohydrates 6 protein 5 fat 8 saturated_fat 3 polyunsaturated_fat 1 monounsaturated_fat 5 cholesterol 15 sodium 200 potassium 250 fiber 1 sugar 4 vitamin_a 900 vitamin_c 14 calcium 120 iron 0.8