Name: Classic Caprese Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 4 medium ripe tomatoes (sliced); 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced); 1 cup fresh basil leaves (whole); 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling); 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for drizzling); to taste salt; to taste black pepper (freshly ground)

Imagine sinking your teeth into a Classic Caprese Salad, where the juiciness of ripe tomatoes dances with the creaminess of fresh mozzarella, all embraced by the aromatic touch of basil. The vibrant colors and bold flavors come together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that’s not just a salad but a celebration of summer on your plate.

Every bite takes me back to sun-soaked afternoons spent at family picnics, where laughter mingles with the scent of olive oil and balsamic vinegar wafting through the air. Whether it’s a warm day or a festive gathering, this salad promises to elevate any occasion, leaving you eagerly anticipating each mouthful of freshness and zest.

Why Is Classic Caprese Salad So Irresistibly Good?

Freshness shines through every layer of this salad, thanks to ripe tomatoes bursting with flavor. Creamy mozzarella adds a delightful richness that perfectly balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Fragrant basil elevates the dish, infusing it with an aromatic note that transports you straight to Italy. Drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and a touch of balsamic vinegar, each bite is a celebration of flavors. Plus, it’s incredibly quick to make—just 15 minutes to impress your guests or enjoy a healthy meal any day!

Classic Caprese Salad Ingredients

4 medium ripe tomatoes (sliced) – Choose vibrant, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor in your Classic Caprese Salad.
8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced) – Use high-quality mozzarella for a creamy texture that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
1 cup fresh basil leaves (whole) – Fresh basil adds an aromatic touch; feel free to tear some leaves for added flavor release.
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling) – Drizzle with a good quality olive oil to enhance the dish's richness and depth.
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for drizzling) – A splash of balsamic vinegar brings a delightful tang that balances the salad's creaminess.
to taste salt – Season with salt to elevate the flavors; start with a pinch and adjust as needed.
to taste black pepper (freshly ground) – Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle heat, enhancing the overall taste of this refreshing salad.

Step-by-Step Classic Caprese Salad

1. Layer tomatoes and cheese: On a beautiful serving platter, alternate layers of vibrant, sliced tomatoes and creamy mozzarella cheese. The colors should pop, inviting everyone to dig in!

2. Add fresh basil: Tuck whole fresh basil leaves between the layers. This fragrant herb will add a burst of flavor and aroma that makes your salad truly Italian.

3. Drizzle with oils: Generously drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar over the top. This adds a luxurious touch, enhancing the fresh ingredients.

4. Season to taste: Finally, season your Classic Caprese Salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. A little seasoning goes a long way in bringing out the flavors!

Optional: Garnish with additional basil leaves for an extra touch of freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips

Tomato Selection: Choose the ripest tomatoes you can find; they should be fragrant and slightly soft to ensure maximum flavor in your Classic Caprese Salad.

Mozzarella Quality: Opt for fresh mozzarella packed in water for creaminess. Avoid pre-shredded varieties, as they lack the rich taste.

Basil Freshness: Use whole fresh basil leaves instead of dried; this adds a vibrant aroma and prevents the salad from tasting flat.

Drizzling Technique: Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar just before serving to maintain the freshness of ingredients and avoid sogginess in your Classic Caprese Salad.

Seasoning Wisely: Don’t skip salt and freshly ground black pepper; they enhance the flavors beautifully. Taste as you go to adjust seasoning.

Layering Balance: Alternate layers of tomatoes and mozzarella evenly, ensuring each bite has a delightful mix of flavors without overwhelming one ingredient.

How to Store and Freeze Classic Caprese Salad

Room Temperature: Enjoy your Classic Caprese Salad fresh! If serving, keep it at room temperature for up to 2 hours for the best taste.

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep tomatoes and mozzarella separate from basil to maintain freshness.

Basil Storage: To keep basil vibrant, wrap it in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag. This keeps it fresh for about 2 days.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the textures of tomatoes and mozzarella may become mushy upon thawing.

Classic Caprese Salad Your Way

Feel free to get creative and personalize this delightful dish with your favorite ingredients and flavors!

Heirloom Tomatoes: Swap regular tomatoes for heirloom varieties for a burst of vibrant colors and unique tastes. Their sweetness and varying textures will elevate your salad to new heights of deliciousness.

Buffalo Mozzarella: Use buffalo mozzarella instead of regular for a richer, creamier experience. This cheese adds a luxurious touch that pairs beautifully with the fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil.

Pesto Drizzle: Add a drizzle of pesto in place of olive oil for an aromatic flavor boost. The nutty, herbaceous notes from the pesto will enhance every bite and bring an Italian flair to your salad.

Avocado Slices: Incorporate creamy avocado slices for added richness and healthy fats. This twist not only enhances the texture but also makes the dish more filling, perfect for a light lunch.

Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top for a spicy finish. This small addition can transform your salad into a zesty delight that excites your taste buds with every forkful.

Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch. The nuttiness complements the softness of the mozzarella and creates a delightful contrast in textures.

Citrus Zest: Add lemon or lime zest along with the balsamic vinegar for a refreshing citrusy twist. This brightens up the flavors, making each bite feel like a sun-kissed summer day.

Arugula Base: Serve your Caprese on a bed of peppery arugula instead of just basil leaves. This adds a delightful peppery note that balances perfectly with the creamy mozzarella and sweet tomatoes.

Make-Ahead Tips for Classic Caprese Salad

Preparing a Classic Caprese Salad is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this vibrant dish without the last-minute rush. To get started, you can slice the 4 medium ripe tomatoes and 8 oz of fresh mozzarella cheese up to 24 hours in advance; just store them separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. The fresh basil leaves can also be washed and dried ahead of time—keep them whole until you’re ready to assemble. When you’re set to serve, simply alternate the layers of tomatoes and mozzarella on a platter, tuck in those fragrant basil leaves, drizzle with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, then finish with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This way, you’ll have a beautiful Classic Caprese Salad ready to impress your family or guests with minimal effort!

Classic Caprese Salad Questions Answered

What type of tomatoes are best for a Classic Caprese Salad?

When choosing tomatoes, go for medium ripe tomatoes such as beefsteak or heirloom varieties. They should be firm yet slightly yielding to the touch, with a rich color and sweet aroma. This ensures a burst of flavor in every bite, making your salad truly delightful!

Can I use store-bought mozzarella for this salad?

Absolutely! While fresh mozzarella cheese is ideal for its creamy texture and subtle taste, high-quality store-bought mozzarella can work well too. Look for the kind packed in water (bocconcini) for that authentic Caprese experience. Just be sure to slice it thinly to match the tomatoes!

How should I store leftover Caprese Salad?

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ideally, consume within 1-2 days for the best flavor and freshness. Keep in mind that the basil might wilt, so consider adding it fresh when serving again.

Is it possible to freeze a Caprese Salad?

Freezing is not recommended for Caprese Salad due to the moisture content in tomatoes and mozzarella, which can change their texture upon thawing. Instead, enjoy this dish fresh; it only takes 15 minutes to prepare!

What’s a good substitute for balsamic vinegar in this recipe?

If you're out of balsamic vinegar, try using red wine vinegar mixed with a pinch of sugar to mimic that sweet tangy flavor. Alternatively, a splash of lemon juice can brighten up your salad beautifully!

How many servings does this recipe make?

This Classic Caprese Salad serves four people. With each serving around 250 calories, it’s perfect as a light appetizer or side dish during gatherings—simple yet elegant!