This Italian Caprese Salad is a fresh, light, and elegant dish made with ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and rich olive oil. It comes together in minutes and highlights how simple ingredients can create incredible flavor. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal, this salad brings a taste of summer to any table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Caprese Salad is effortless yet impressive, making it ideal for both casual meals and special gatherings. There is no cooking involved, so it’s perfect when you want something quick and refreshing. The combination of juicy tomatoes, soft mozzarella, and aromatic basil is timeless, and the salad is naturally wholesome and balanced. It’s also easy to customize while still staying true to its Italian roots.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 large ripe tomatoes (about 450 g / 1 lb total), sliced into even rounds
250 g (9 oz) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
20–25 fresh basil leaves, whole
2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
Optional: 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze for drizzling
Directions
Wash the tomatoes and pat them dry. Slice them into even rounds, about 1/4 inch thick.
Slice the fresh mozzarella into rounds similar in thickness to the tomatoes.
Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices on a serving plate or platter, alternating between the two.
Gently tuck whole basil leaves between the tomato and mozzarella slices.
Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the salad.
Sprinkle with salt and black pepper to taste.
If using, lightly drizzle balsamic glaze over the top just before serving.
Serve immediately at room temperature for the best flavor.
You can use cherry or grape tomatoes sliced in half for a different look and texture.
Add avocado slices for extra creaminess.
Swap regular tomatoes for heirloom tomatoes to add color and depth of flavor.
Drizzle with basil pesto instead of olive oil for a more herb-forward version.
Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for a subtle crunch.
Storage/Reheating
Caprese Salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep in mind that the tomatoes may release extra juice and the basil may wilt. This dish should not be frozen, and reheating is not recommended.
FAQs
What type of tomatoes are best for Caprese Salad?
Ripe, in-season tomatoes such as beefsteak, vine-ripened, or heirloom tomatoes work best for flavor and texture.
Can I make Caprese Salad ahead of time?
You can slice the tomatoes and mozzarella a few hours ahead, but assemble the salad just before serving for the best results.
Should Caprese Salad be served cold?
It’s best served at room temperature, as cold tomatoes and cheese have less flavor.
Can I use low-moisture mozzarella?
Fresh mozzarella is strongly recommended. Low-moisture mozzarella lacks the creamy texture that makes this salad special.
Is balsamic glaze traditional in Caprese Salad?
Classic Caprese Salad does not include balsamic glaze, but it’s a popular and tasty modern addition.
How do I keep basil from turning dark?
Use whole leaves and add them just before serving. Tearing gently instead of chopping also helps prevent bruising.
Can I add protein to this salad?
You can serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish, but traditionally the salad itself remains simple and vegetarian.
Is this salad suitable for a light lunch?
Yes, especially when served with bread or a side salad, it makes a satisfying light meal.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is essential for authentic flavor. Dried basil does not provide the same aroma or texture.
How much olive oil should I use?
About 2 tablespoons is enough to enhance the flavors without overpowering the salad.
Conclusion
Italian Caprese Salad proves that simple ingredients can create something truly memorable. With fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and quality olive oil, this dish delivers clean, vibrant flavors in every bite. Whether served as a starter, side, or light meal, it’s a timeless recipe you’ll return to again and again.
This Italian Caprese Salad features ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil, all drizzled with extra virgin olive oil for a refreshing, simple, and elegant dish. Perfect as a starter, side, or light meal.
Author:Sophia
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Total Time:10 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Salad
Method:No-Cook
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
3 large ripe tomatoes (about 450 g / 1 lb), sliced
250 g (9 oz) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
20–25 fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
Optional: 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
Wash and slice the tomatoes into 1/4-inch rounds.
Slice the mozzarella into rounds of similar thickness.
On a serving platter, alternate tomato and mozzarella slices in a circular or row pattern.
Tuck whole basil leaves between the slices.
Drizzle olive oil evenly over the salad.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
If desired, drizzle with balsamic glaze.
Serve immediately at room temperature for best flavor.
Notes
Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for best taste.
Fresh mozzarella is essential for authentic texture.
Assemble just before serving to preserve freshness.
Do not refrigerate for long, as basil can wilt and tomatoes lose flavor.
