This Caprese salad is a classic Italian dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Made with just a few fresh ingredients—ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and olive oil—it’s a perfect side dish, appetizer, or light summer lunch.
It’s quick to make, super healthy, and totally customizable. Whether you serve it traditional-style or give it a little twist, this salad is all about celebrating simplicity and freshness!
🛒 What You’ll Need
- 3–4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
- 2–3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzling
👩🍳 Pro Tips for the Best Caprese Salad
- Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the most flavor.
- Slice everything the same thickness for a pretty, even presentation.
- Room temp ingredients = best texture and taste.
- Gently tear basil instead of chopping to preserve its aroma.
- Use a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil—it really makes a difference!
🔄 Substitutions & Variations
- Add avocado slices for creaminess
- Use burrata instead of mozzarella for an ultra-luxe version
- Make it bite-sized with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- Drizzle with pesto instead of balsamic for a green twist
🔪 Tools You’ll Need
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Serving platter or plate
- Small spoon for drizzling oil or glaze
🕒 Make Ahead & Storage Tips
- Assemble up to 2 hours ahead and keep covered in the fridge
- Best served same day—tomatoes and cheese will release moisture over time
- If storing leftovers, place in an airtight container and eat within 24 hours
🔥 How to Make Caprese Salad
1️⃣ Slice Tomatoes & Mozzarella
Use a sharp knife to slice tomatoes and fresh mozzarella into ¼-inch thick rounds.
2️⃣ Arrange on a Plate
On a serving platter, layer tomato slices, mozzarella slices, and basil leaves, slightly overlapping in a circular or straight pattern.
3️⃣ Season & Drizzle
Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze, if using.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
- Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 24 hours
- Tomatoes may release some water—just gently blot or drain before serving
- Best eaten fresh for peak texture and flavor!
🍅 Simple, Stunning, and Delicious
Caprese salad is proof that you don’t need a long ingredient list to make something incredible. Fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a touch of oil—that’s all it takes to create a dish that’s as beautiful as it is satisfying.
Tried it? Let me know how you served yours—classic, with burrata, or all decked out with extras! 🍅🧡🌿
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