Simple Caprese Salad
A timeless Italian classic, this Simple Caprese Salad features the vibrant colors and fresh flavors of ripe tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all brought together with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. It's a refreshing, no-cook dish perfect as a light lunch or elegant side.
For 2 servings
Wash and thoroughly dry the fresh ripe tomatoes and basil leaves. Ensure all produce is at room temperature for optimal flavor.
Slice the tomatoes into 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick rounds. Drain the fresh mozzarella and slice it into similar thickness rounds for even presentation.
On a serving platter or individual plates, arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices, alternating them in an overlapping pattern to create a beautiful visual display.
Tuck fresh basil leaves in between the tomato and mozzarella slices, ensuring even distribution so every bite gets a hint of basil.
Evenly drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the entire salad. Use a good quality oil as its flavor is prominent in this simple dish.
Season generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust seasoning to your preference, enhancing the natural flavors.
If desired, lightly drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving. This adds a touch of sweetness and tang. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Ingredient Quality is Key: Since Caprese has so few ingredients, the quality of each is paramount. Use the freshest, ripest tomatoes, high-quality fresh mozzarella (preferably buffalo mozzarella), and fragrant, vibrant basil.
- 2Temperature Matters: Serve tomatoes at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. If refrigerating mozzarella, let it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
- 3Don't Overdress: A light drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper are usually sufficient. The goal is to enhance, not mask, the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- 4Slice Uniformly: Aim for uniform slices of tomatoes and mozzarella to ensure a balanced bite and appealing presentation.
Adapt it for your goals.
Added Ingredients
Introduce thinly sliced red onion, avocado, or cucumber for added texture and flavor. Grilled peaches or strawberries can also add a delightful sweet-savory twist.
Cheese AlternativesCheese Alternatives
While fresh mozzarella is classic, burrata cheese offers an even creamier, richer experience. Small mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine) can also be used for a bite-sized version.
Herb & Dressing SwapsHerb & Dressing Swaps
Experiment with other fresh herbs like mint or oregano. Instead of plain olive oil, try an infused olive oil (garlic or chili) or a light lemon vinaigrette for a different tang.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Tomatoes are packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant known for its potential to reduce the risk of certain cancers and promote heart health.
Good Source of Calcium
Fresh mozzarella provides a significant amount of calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth, as well as muscle function and nerve transmission.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Basil contains essential oils with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, while extra virgin olive oil is known for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Frequently asked questions
It's best to assemble Caprese salad just before serving to prevent the tomatoes from becoming watery and the basil from wilting. However, you can slice the tomatoes and mozzarella a few hours in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator, bringing them to room temperature before assembly.
