Caprese Salad | Fresh Italian Tomato and Mozzarella Salad
1. Introduction
The Caprese Salad, or Insalata Caprese, is a timeless Italian favorite that embodies simplicity, freshness, and balance. With just five ingredients — ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, olive oil, and balsamic glaze — it celebrates the natural beauty of Mediterranean produce.
Named after the island of Capri, this salad’s red, white, and green colors honor the Italian flag. It’s a dish that requires no cooking, only the freshest, ripest ingredients and thoughtful presentation.
Whether served as an appetizer, a side dish, or a light lunch, the Caprese Salad delivers a refreshing harmony of creamy, juicy, and aromatic notes in every bite.
2. Ingredients Breakdown
For the Salad
- Fresh Mozzarella Cheese (8 oz, sliced) – Soft and creamy; buffalo mozzarella (mozzarella di bufala) gives the richest texture.
- Ripe Tomatoes (3–4 medium, sliced) – Choose firm yet juicy tomatoes like Roma, heirloom, or vine-ripened.
- Fresh Basil Leaves (10–12) – Adds fragrance and the signature Italian flavor.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (2–3 tbsp) – High-quality oil enhances the overall flavor and mouthfeel.
- Balsamic Glaze (optional, for drizzling) – Adds a sweet-tart contrast to the creamy and savory elements.
Optional Add-Ons
- Sea Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – To taste.
- Flaky Sea Salt or Maldon Salt – For finishing and visual appeal.
- Crushed Garlic or Oregano – For a subtle aromatic twist.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into even rounds. Wash and pat dry the basil leaves.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
On a large serving plate, alternate slices of tomato and mozzarella, tucking fresh basil leaves between each layer.
Step 3: Drizzle with Olive Oil
Pour extra-virgin olive oil evenly over the salad for shine and flavor.
Step 4: Add Balsamic Glaze (Optional)
Drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and visual contrast.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper just before serving. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
4. Tips and Variations
- Choose quality ingredients: With such a simple dish, freshness and quality make all the difference.
- Use heirloom tomatoes in different colors for a vibrant presentation.
- Try burrata cheese instead of mozzarella for a creamier version.
- Add avocado slices for extra richness.
- Make it a meal: Serve with crusty bread, prosciutto, or a drizzle of pesto.
- For a modern twist: Stack ingredients vertically or serve on skewers for a Caprese appetizer.
5. Serving Suggestions
- As a starter before pasta or grilled meat.
- Paired with Italian bread or focaccia to soak up the olive oil.
- Served alongside grilled chicken, seafood, or pasta dishes.
- Ideal for picnics, brunches, and light summer dinners.
6. Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Best eaten fresh, but can be refrigerated (covered) for up to 24 hours.
- Avoid freezing: The texture of fresh mozzarella and tomatoes deteriorates when frozen.
- For make-ahead: Slice ingredients and assemble just before serving.
7. Recipe Notes
- Use room-temperature tomatoes and cheese for optimal flavor.
- Always slice tomatoes with a serrated knife to prevent bruising.
- Don’t overdress — a little oil and glaze go a long way.
- For authenticity, skip the glaze and stick to olive oil and salt only.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Calcium | 250 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15% DV |
Nutrition values are approximate and depend on exact ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Salad / Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 2–4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 3–4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 10–12 fresh basil leaves
- 2–3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Slice tomatoes and mozzarella evenly.
- Arrange alternately on a platter with basil leaves.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately and enjoy fresh.
🏷️ Diet Tags:
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free
- Low-Carb
- Mediterranean Diet
🌿 Health Benefits:
- Rich in antioxidants from tomatoes and olive oil.
- High in calcium and protein from mozzarella.
- Promotes heart health with healthy fats from olive oil.
- Boosts immunity thanks to fresh basil and vitamin C.
10. FAQs
1. What is Caprese Salad made of?
It’s made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and sometimes balsamic glaze.
2. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is essential — dried basil doesn’t provide the same flavor or aroma.
3. What type of mozzarella works best?
Buffalo mozzarella (mozzarella di bufala) is traditional, but cow’s milk mozzarella also works well.
4. How do I keep it from getting watery?
Use firm, ripe tomatoes and pat mozzarella dry before assembling.
5. Can I make it ahead?
Assemble just before serving to keep it fresh and prevent sogginess.
11. Final Thoughts
The Caprese Salad is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. It’s light, colorful, and bursting with freshness — perfect for summer gatherings, elegant dinners, or quick weekday lunches.
With its balance of creamy mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, this salad captures the soul of Italian cuisine: fresh, beautiful, and timeless.