Caprese Salad isn’t just a recipe—it’s sunshine on a plate. With vibrant tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, this dish brings the beauty of Italian simplicity right into your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic or need a quick appetizer, this no-cook wonder has your back. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you can create something that tastes like it came straight from a coastal café in Capri.
Why You’ll Love This Caprese Salad Recipe
There’s a reason this Caprese Salad keeps showing up at gatherings, brunches, and dinner tables. Here’s why you’ll want to keep it in your recipe rotation:
- Incredibly Easy – Slice, stack, and drizzle. No cooking required!
- Bold, Fresh Flavors – Juicy tomatoes and basil balance the richness of mozzarella perfectly.
- Budget-Friendly & Elegant – Few ingredients, impressive presentation.
- Perfectly Portioned – This version makes 8 individual stacks—great for serving or meal prep.
The Story Behind Caprese Salad
Caprese Salad (Insalata Caprese) is a dish rooted in Italian pride and simplicity. Here’s what makes it special:
- Named after the island of Capri, where it originated.
- Colors reflect the Italian flag: red (tomato), white (mozzarella), and green (basil).
- Traditionally served as an antipasto—an appetizer before the main course.
- Gained popularity post-WWI as a symbol of patriotism and national pride.
Key Ingredients in Caprese Salad
- Fresh Mozzarella Cheese – Creamy and soft, it’s the mild star of the show. We use 8 oz, sliced into 8 rounds.
- Ripe Red Tomatoes – Choose two medium tomatoes for sweetness and juicy texture.
- Fresh Basil Leaves – Whole leaves add aroma and earthy freshness.
- Olive Oil – A light drizzle brings it all together.
- Balsamic Glaze – Sweet and tangy, it deepens the flavor and adds visual appeal.
- Salt & Pepper – A pinch brings balance and brightness.
How to Make Caprese Salad Step-by-Step
- Prep Your Ingredients
Slice 8 oz of fresh mozzarella into 8 even slices. Do the same with your 2 medium red tomatoes. - Start Stacking
On a serving platter, arrange in a repeating pattern: one slice mozzarella, one slice tomato, one basil leaf. Continue until all ingredients are used. - Season Smartly
Lightly sprinkle the assembled stacks with salt and black pepper to taste. - Drizzle to Finish
Drizzle 1 teaspoon of olive oil over the stacks, followed by 1 ½ teaspoons of balsamic glaze. Trader Joe’s and Wegmans carry delicious ready-to-use versions. - Serve Fresh
Each individual stack (mozzarella + tomato + basil + drizzle) is one serving. Enjoy right away for the best flavor.
Caprese Salad Tips and Twists
Here are a few ways to elevate your Caprese Salad:
- Use room-temperature ingredients for maximum flavor.
- Dry mozzarella slightly to prevent extra moisture.
- Add flaky sea salt just before serving for texture.
- Choose heirloom tomatoes for a colorful twist.
- Slice evenly so each stack stays neat and balanced.
Fun Variations
- Peach Caprese – Sub tomatoes with ripe peach slices for a summery sweet spin.
- Avocado Caprese – Add sliced avocado for creamy richness.
- Grilled Caprese – Lightly char the tomatoes or cheese for smoky flavor.
Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips
- Storage:
Keep leftovers in an airtight container. Best enjoyed within 24 hours. - Reheating:
Not recommended—this is a cold dish meant to be enjoyed fresh. - Make-Ahead:
Slice all ingredients in advance, but assemble and drizzle just before serving to keep it crisp.
Serving Suggestions for Caprese Salad
Caprese Salad is more versatile than you might think! Try it:
- Alongside Grilled Mains – Serve with Grilled Chicken Wraps for a balanced lunch.
- With Toasted Bread – A chunk of Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread soaks up those delicious juices.
- As a Starter – Great before a heavier pasta like Carbone Spicy Rigatoni.
- On a Grazing Board – Pair with meats, olives, and nuts for an elegant appetizer tray.
- With White Wine or Lemonade – Refreshing sips to match the light flavors.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?
Absolutely! Wegmans and Trader Joe’s both make great options.
What if I only have small tomatoes?
You can use smaller ones—just create mini stacks with bite-sized mozzarella.
Can I skip the basil?
You can, but basil really brings this dish to life. Try arugula for a peppery twist instead.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just double-check your balsamic glaze label.
How do I keep it from getting soggy?
Assemble just before serving and lightly pat your cheese and tomatoes dry.
Enjoy Your Caprese Salad
Caprese Salad is proof that less really is more. With just six simple ingredients, you can create a dish that feels elevated yet effortless. It’s bright, bold, and refreshingly light—perfect for when you want something beautiful and satisfying without turning on the stove. So go ahead, stack it up and drizzle away. Your summer table just got a lot more delicious.
Explore More Recipes to Pair with Caprese Salad
Love how easy this was? You’ll enjoy these beginner-friendly favorites from Abby’s Recipes too:
- Serve Caprese Salad with Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs for an Italian-style dinner.
- Round out a light lunch with our Simple Avocado Toast with Egg.
- Craving a sweet finish? Try the Strawberry Cream Cake.
- Add a cheesy twist with our Chicken Alfredo Lasagna.
- Or go all in with our cozy Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread—great for mopping up olive oil and glaze.
Caprese Salad Recipe with Balsamic Glaze
Ingredients
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese sliced into 8 (1 oz) slices
- 2 medium red tomatoes sliced into 8 slices
- 8 large fresh basil leaves
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 ½ teaspoons balsamic glaze such as Wegmans or Trader Joe’s brand
Instructions
- Slice the mozzarella cheese and tomatoes into 8 even slices each.
- On a serving platter, layer in this order: one mozzarella slice, one tomato slice, one basil leaf. Repeat the pattern.
- Sprinkle the entire platter lightly with salt and black pepper.
- Drizzle evenly with olive oil.
- Add the balsamic glaze in a thin drizzle over the top.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve each stack (cheese + tomato + basil) as an individual portion.
- Enjoy fresh and at room temperature for best taste.
Notes
Calories: 90
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 6g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 2g