Prep Time: 25 min.
Nothing beats a classic Tomato Caprese Salad, especially during the summer months when beef tomatoes are at their peak! This simple, yet beautiful salad easily feeds a crowd and is perfect for family dinners, lunches, dinner parties, barbecues, and even special occasions.
Like my cucumber tomato salad it's one of those recipes you can serve anytime, anywhere, and people will always love it.
All you need is firm, ripe tomatoes, creamy, fresh mozzarella, and vibrant basil leaves. Make sure you use the best ingredients you can find and let them speak for themselves.
Dress the salad with a mild extra virgin olive oil, balsamic glaze, and sea salt, and serve it as an appetizer or side salad. You can even serve it with crostini for a make-your-own bruschetta situation.
Ingredients You'll Need
Please be sure to scroll down to the recipe card below for the complete details!
• Fresh mozzarella: Creamy, fresh mozzarella balls are the only real option here. I like to drain mine off on a paper towel for a few minutes.
• Beef tomatoes: Go for sweet, ripe tomatoes that are firm.
• Fresh basil: Adds a fresh vibrant taste, and a beautiful pop of green!
• Olive oil: I love to use a good quality, mild extra virgin olive oil, so the simple flavors aren't overpowered.
• Balsamic glaze: Adds tang and sweetness. Swap for balsamic vinegar.
• Seasoning: Flaky salt (and pepper if you like) brings all the flavors together. Adjust to your taste.
How to Make Tomato Caprese Salad
1. Prepare the ingredients. Slice the cheese and tomatoes.
2. Arrange the platter. Place the sliced cheese, tomato, and basil in a spiral shape on a round platter.
3. Make the dressing. Mix the olive oil and balsamic glaze, and top the salad with it.
4. Season. Sprinkle generously with flaky sea salt.
Possible Variations
• Mozzarella: Smoked, marinated, or even mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini) would all be tasty alternatives.
• Tomatoes: Use any tomatoes you have on hand. Vine tomatoes, heirloom, or even cherry tomatoes are all delicious options. If you want to avoid tomatoes altogether, use nectarines, peaches, figs, and pears.
• Platter: For a different look, opt for plating on a rectangular chopping board or platter. Arrange the ingredients in rows instead.
• Dressing: Swap olive oil and balsamic glaze for a delicious basil or parsley pesto. Even a balsamic and honey vinaigrette would be tasty.
• Add-ins: Add avocado or cucumber, or top with chopped pistachios, toasted pine nuts, or croutons for added crunch!
FAQs
Can I make the salad ahead of time?
A few hours in advance will be fine, but wait to dress and season the salad until right before serving. You may need to remove any excess liquid from the mozzarella.
How long can I save leftovers?
Store any leftovers in the fridge in a covered glass container and consume within 1-2 days.
Is this a traditional caprese salad?
Yes, although traditionally the salad is only dressed with olive oil and salt (feel free to omit the balsamic glaze if you prefer).
What can I serve the tomato mozzarella salad with?
Enjoy it on its own for lunch or as a side salad. You can even top it onto crostini for a flavorful bruschetta.
Other Beautiful Salads
Ingredients
- 4 fresh mozzarella balls
- 5 beef tomatoes
- fresh basil leaves (to garnish)
- 6 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- sea salt (to taste)
Instructions
Serves 8-10.
1. Cut the mozzarella and tomatoes into thin slices.
2. Arrange the tomato and cheese interchangeably on a round platter with fresh basil in a spiral.
3. Whisk the olive oil and balsamic glaze together in a small bowl.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad.
5. Sprinkle flaky sea salt to taste.
6. Serve.
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