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This vibrant Caprese Salad is a timeless favorite that perfectly balances simplicity with elegance.
Featuring ripe heirloom tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, it delivers fresh, wholesome flavors that delight the senses.
Beyond taste, it’s a nutritious choice—rich in high-quality protein from the mozzarella and packed with antioxidants from the tomatoes and basil.
The salad also offers heart-healthy fats through a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Low in carbohydrates and naturally gluten-free, this dish is perfect for those seeking light yet satisfying meals.
Quick to assemble and visually stunning, it’s ideal for everyday lunches, summer gatherings, or as a refreshing appetizer.
Its minimal prep time and use of readily available ingredients make it a go-to recipe for effortless, healthy dining.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Sharp Chef’s Knife
Essential for slicing tomatoes and mozzarella into even, delicate pieces, ensuring a balanced presentation and consistent texture. This versatile tool is indispensable for any kitchen, handling everything from chopping veggies to slicing meats.
Cutting Board
Provides a stable, sanitary surface for prepping ingredients. A quality cutting board protects your counters and knife edges, making food prep safer and more efficient.
Serving Platter
Showcases the layered salad beautifully, turning a simple dish into an elegant presentation. A large, flat platter is also perfect for serving appetizers or family-style meals.
Measuring Spoons
Crucial for accurately measuring small amounts of salt and sugar to balance flavors perfectly. Precision tools like these help maintain recipe consistency and enhance taste.
Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Equipment
- 1 Sharp chef’s knife
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Large Serving Platter
- Measuring Spoons (set)
Ingredients
- 3 medium heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes sliced ¼-inch thick
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt divided
- 1 pound fresh mozzarella sliced ¼-inch thick
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
- Balsamic glaze store-bought, for drizzling
- ¼ cup fresh basil roughly chopped
- Additional whole basil sprigs for garnish optional
Instructions
- Prepare and Slice the Tomatoes: Start by selecting ripe heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes that are firm yet juicy. Wash them thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or residues. Using a sharp chef’s knife, carefully slice each tomato into uniform ¼-inch thick rounds. Aim for even slices to ensure balanced flavor and an attractive presentation. Lay the tomato slices flat on a clean cutting board or plate in a single layer.
- Sweeten and Season the Tomatoes: Sprinkle ½ teaspoon of sugar evenly over the arranged tomato slices. This subtle sweetness enhances the natural acidity of the tomatoes, balancing the flavors beautifully. Then, add ¼ teaspoon of salt evenly on top. Allow the tomatoes to rest for a few minutes at room temperature — this short waiting period helps the sugar dissolve and the salt to gently draw out excess moisture, intensifying the tomato’s flavor and improving texture.
- Slice the Fresh Mozzarella: While the tomatoes are resting, take 1 pound of fresh mozzarella cheese. If not pre-sliced, use your sharp knife to cut the mozzarella into ¼-inch thick slices, matching the thickness of the tomato slices. Handle the mozzarella gently to preserve its creamy texture and avoid tearing. Set the slices aside on a clean plate.
- Layer Tomatoes and Mozzarella on the Platter: Select a large serving platter with enough space to arrange the salad attractively. Begin by placing a slice of tomato on the platter, followed by a slice of mozzarella directly next to it. Continue alternating tomato and mozzarella slices in a neat, overlapping row until all slices are arranged. This alternating pattern creates the classic Caprese look and allows each bite to have a perfect balance of ingredients.
- Final Seasoning and Peppering: Once the slices are arranged, sprinkle the remaining ¼ teaspoon of salt evenly over the entire salad. Add freshly ground black pepper to taste, distributing it gently for a subtle kick of spice that complements the creamy mozzarella and sweet tomatoes.
- Drizzle Olive Oil and Balsamic Glaze: Take about 1 tablespoon of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and drizzle it evenly over the layered salad. This adds richness and enhances the fresh ingredients with a fruity, peppery undertone. Next, drizzle an equal amount of balsamic glaze on top — its tangy sweetness provides a beautiful contrast and a glossy finish. There’s no need to be exact; eyeballing the amounts works well here for a balanced taste.
- Garnish with Fresh Basil: Roughly chop ¼ cup of fresh basil leaves and scatter them over the top of the salad. The basil adds a refreshing herbal aroma and vibrant green color, elevating both the flavor and presentation. For an extra touch of elegance, place a few whole basil sprigs around the edges of the platter as a garnish.
- Serve and Enjoy Immediately: Caprese Salad is best enjoyed fresh. Serve immediately to preserve the texture and flavor of the tomatoes and mozzarella. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or as a light appetizer alongside your favorite Italian dishes. If needed, cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving, but avoid longer storage to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use the freshest tomatoes and mozzarella you can find, as they are the stars of this dish. Heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes work best for their rich flavor and firm texture.
- Allow the tomatoes to rest with sugar and salt briefly; this step helps intensify their natural sweetness and reduces excess moisture for a better texture.
- Use a sharp knife to slice ingredients evenly to ensure balanced flavor and an attractive presentation.
- Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze just before serving to maintain their fresh flavor and glossy appearance.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making it a versatile option for many diets.
Chef’s Secrets: How To Elevate Your Salad
The key to a perfect Caprese Salad lies in ingredient quality and balance.
Choose fresh, ripe tomatoes that aren’t overly watery, as this can dilute the salad’s flavor and make it soggy.
Salt and sugar aren’t just for seasoning — they work together to bring out the tomatoes’ natural sweetness and deepen the overall flavor.
When selecting mozzarella, opt for fresh, soft varieties rather than pre-packaged shredded cheese to preserve that creamy texture.
Lastly, don’t skimp on the extra virgin olive oil; a good quality oil adds richness and a subtle peppery note that complements the salad beautifully.
For an extra twist, try adding a pinch of freshly ground black pepper or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving to enhance the flavor layers.
Serving Suggestions: Perfect Pairings and Ideas
This Caprese Salad shines as a light appetizer or side dish, pairing beautifully with crusty Italian bread or garlic focaccia.
It complements grilled meats or seafood, making it a versatile addition to summer barbecues or dinner parties.
For a heartier meal, serve alongside a bowl of fresh pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs or a simple green salad.
For a refreshing twist, add sliced avocado or a handful of arugula for a peppery contrast.
Garnish with whole basil leaves for an inviting presentation that adds visual appeal to any meal.
Storage Tips: Keeping It Fresh Longer
Caprese Salad is best enjoyed immediately to preserve the vibrant flavors and textures.
If you need to prepare it ahead of time, assemble the salad but wait to add olive oil and balsamic glaze until just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Store the assembled salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
For longer storage, keep tomatoes and mozzarella separate and combine them fresh when ready to serve.
Avoid freezing this salad, as the fresh ingredients will lose their texture and become watery upon thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions: Quick Answers You Need
Q1: Can I use regular vinegar instead of balsamic glaze?
A1: Regular vinegar is more acidic and watery compared to balsamic glaze’s sweet, syrupy texture. If you don’t have glaze, reduce balsamic vinegar on low heat until thickened or drizzle less regular vinegar with a touch of honey.
Q2: How do I choose the best mozzarella for this recipe?
A2: Fresh mozzarella balls (often labeled “mozzarella di bufala” or “fresh mozzarella”) have a soft, creamy texture perfect for Caprese. Avoid pre-shredded cheese as it lacks moisture and creaminess.
Q3: Can I prepare this salad in advance?
A3: You can prep slices separately and assemble right before serving. Avoid drizzling olive oil or balsamic glaze too early, as they can make the salad watery.
Q4: Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
A4: Yes, this salad is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent option for low-carb and keto-friendly diets.
Q5: What can I substitute for fresh basil if unavailable?
A5: Fresh basil provides the signature flavor, but if unavailable, try fresh mint or parsley for a different, yet pleasant herbal note. However, basil is highly recommended for authenticity.
This recipe is inspired by onceuponachef and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.
