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This classic Caprese salad recipe is fresh, simple, and ready in minutes with tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil.
Know Before You Scroll
What You’ll Need
tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, olive oil, balsamic glaze (optional), salt, pepper
Flavor Profile
Fresh, creamy, bright, lightly tangy.
Difficulty Level
Easy.
Equipment Needed
Knife, cutting board, serving platter.
Top Tip
Use room-temperature ingredients for the best flavor.
Time-Saving Tips
Buy pre-sliced mozzarella if needed.
Ingredient Swaps
Skip balsamic glaze for a more traditional version.
In The Test Kitchen
Caprese salad is one of those recipes that seems almost too simple to get wrong—but I’ve learned over the years that it’s all about balance and quality. The first time I made it, I overdressed it and completely lost that clean, fresh flavor.
What makes it work is restraint. Just-ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and good olive oil do all the heavy lifting. Once I stopped overthinking it, this became one of my go-to dishes when I want something effortless that still feels special.
Ingredient Notes
Tomatoes
Best Choice
Ripe, in-season tomatoes like heirloom or vine-ripened are the best choice.
Substitutions
Cherry tomatoes, halved, work well for a different presentation.
Fresh Mozzarella
Best Choice
Fresh mozzarella packed in water gives the creamiest texture.
Substitutions
Burrata works for a richer twist.
Basil
Best Choice
Use whole fresh basil leaves for the best flavor and visual appeal.
Substitutions
Stick with fresh basil here for the classic flavor profile.
Dressing & Finish
Best Choice
High-quality extra virgin olive oil adds fruity richness; balsamic glaze is optional, and flaky sea salt plus black pepper sharpen the whole salad.
Substitutions
Skip the balsamic glaze for a more traditional version.
Where to Find
Produce aisle and the fresh cheese section.
Detailed instructions with photos for each step below.
Step By Step Instructions
1
Slice the Tomatoes
Slice 3 to 4 ripe tomatoes into even ¼-inch rounds. Keep the slices uniform so the salad layers neatly.
2
Slice the Mozzarella
And 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella.
3
Build the Pattern
On a serving platter, place a slice of tomato, then mozzarella, then a basil leaf. Continue alternating, slightly overlapping each piece in a row or circular pattern. Repeat the layering until all ingredients are used, creating a visually balanced arrangement with pops of green basil between each slice.
4
Add the Dressing
Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil evenly over the top. If using, lightly drizzle 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze in a thin ribbon.
5
Season and Serve
Sprinkle flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Let the salad sit for a few minutes and serve at room temperature for the best flavor.
More Tomato Recipes
Recipe
Classic Caprese Salad
Ingredients
- 3-4 ripe tomatoes (sliced)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella (sliced)
- fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional)
- flaky sea salt (to taste)
- freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Slice 3 to 4 ripe tomatoes and 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella into even ¼-inch rounds. Keep the slices uniform so the salad layers neatly.
- On a serving platter, place a slice of tomato, then mozzarella, then a basil leaf. Continue alternating, slightly overlapping each piece in a row or circular pattern.
- Repeat the layering until all ingredients are used, creating a visually balanced arrangement with pops of green basil between each slice.
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil evenly over the top. If using, lightly drizzle 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze in a thin ribbon.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Let the salad sit for a few minutes and serve at room temperature for the best flavor.
Tips
Erren’s Top Tips
- Use the best tomatoes you can find. This dish depends on them, so if they’re bland, the whole salad will be too.
- Always bring everything to room temperature before serving. Cold mozzarella dulls the flavor and texture.
- Don’t overdress. Too much oil or glaze can overpower the natural freshness.
- Slice evenly. Uniform slices help the salad look polished and ensure balanced bites.
- Season right before serving. Salt draws out moisture, so adding it too early can make the salad watery.
Variations & Add-Ins
- Try burrata instead of mozzarella for a richer, creamier center that feels a little more indulgent.
- Add sliced avocado for a buttery twist that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes.
- Scatter toasted pine nuts over the top for a bit of crunch and nuttiness.
- Drizzle with pesto instead of balsamic glaze for a more herb-forward version.
Storage & Freezing
- Caprese salad is best eaten fresh and does not store well once assembled.
- If needed, you can prep the ingredients ahead and store them separately in the refrigerator, then assemble just before serving.
- Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of both tomatoes and mozzarella will be compromised.
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FAQs
What tomatoes are best for Caprese salad?
Ripe, in-season tomatoes like heirloom or vine-ripened are best. Avoid underripe or refrigerated tomatoes for the best flavor.
Do you have to use balsamic glaze?
No. Traditional Caprese salad does not include balsamic. It’s optional for added sweetness.
Can I make Caprese salad ahead of time?
It’s best assembled just before serving, but you can slice ingredients ahead and store separately.
Why is my Caprese salad watery?
This usually happens when salt is added too early or the tomatoes release excess juice. Season right before serving.
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