The Classic Caprese Salad is a vibrant celebration of simplicity, bursting with fresh, bold flavors in every bite. Juicy, ripe tomatoes pair perfectly with creamy mozzarella, while fragrant basil leaves add a refreshing herbal note.
Drizzled with golden olive oil and a hint of balsamic, this dish is a feast for the eyes and the palate. Best of all, it comes together in just 10 minutes, making it an effortless yet elegant choice for any occasion.
Each forkful offers a delightful contrast of textures—soft cheese, tender tomatoes, and crisp basil. The harmony of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors creates a timeless dish that feels both indulgent and light.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quick lunch, this salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its freshness and simplicity remind us why some recipes become classics.
Fresh and Simple Ingredients for Classic Caprese Salad
- 3 to 4 medium heirloom tomatoes, sliced (use ripe, colorful tomatoes for the best flavor)
- 1 (8-ounce) ball fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced (look for high-quality mozzarella for creaminess)
- Fresh basil leaves (use whole leaves or tear them for a rustic look)
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling (choose a good-quality oil for richness)
- Flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional additions/variations:
- Balsamic vinegar or balsamic reduction, for drizzling
- Pesto
- Sliced peaches
- Fresh mint leaves
- Avocado slices
- Strawberries (see this strawberry salad for inspiration)
Easy Step-by-Step Instructions
- Arrange the ingredients: On a large platter, alternate slices of tomatoes and mozzarella cheese. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the slices for a beautiful presentation.
- Drizzle and season: Generously drizzle extra-virgin olive oil over the arranged ingredients. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Add optional variations: If desired, drizzle with balsamic vinegar or balsamic reduction, add a dollop of pesto, or incorporate any of the optional ingredients like sliced peaches, mint leaves, avocado, or strawberries for a unique twist.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy this fresh and vibrant salad right away for the best flavor and texture.
Elevate Your Caprese Salad with These Toppings
While the classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil is timeless, adding a drizzle of balsamic reduction can bring a sweet and tangy twist.
For a creamy touch, try a dollop of pesto or even avocado slices. Feeling adventurous? Add sliced peaches or strawberries for a refreshing, fruity twist!
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
This salad shines as a light appetizer or side dish. Pair it with grilled chicken or crusty bread for a more substantial meal.
It’s also a great addition to a summer picnic or brunch spread. Serve it chilled for maximum freshness and flavor!
Quick Tips for a Stress-Free Prep
To save time, use pre-sliced mozzarella or a mandoline slicer for perfectly even tomato slices.
Arrange the ingredients directly on the serving platter to minimize cleanup. If you’re making it ahead, keep the basil leaves separate until serving to maintain their vibrant color.
How to Store and Enjoy Later?
Caprese salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.
Keep the basil leaves separate to prevent wilting. Before serving, drizzle a little fresh olive oil to revive the flavors.
Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers!
Wondering if you can use cherry tomatoes? Absolutely! They’re a great alternative for bite-sized portions. Not a fan of mozzarella?
Try burrata for an extra creamy texture. And yes, you can swap fresh basil for fresh mint for a unique herbal twist!
Classic Caprese Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 to 4 medium heirloom tomatoes, sliced
- 1 8-ounce ball fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Optional additions/variations
- Balsamic vinegar or balsamic reduction, for drizzling
- Pesto
- Sliced peaches
- Fresh mint leaves
- Avocado slices
- Strawberries, see this strawberry salad
Instructions
- Arrange the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil leaves on a platter. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- If desired, add ingredients from the variations list.