Caprese salad is one of those rare dishes that proves great food doesn’t need complexity. With just a handful of ingredients—ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, olive oil, and salt—this classic Italian salad delivers flavor that feels both effortless and refined.
When made well, caprese salad is vibrant, juicy, creamy, and aromatic all at once. It works as a light lunch, an elegant starter, or a refreshing side dish, especially during warmer months when tomatoes are at their peak. What makes it truly special is the way each ingredient plays its role without overpowering the others.
This is not a salad that hides behind heavy dressings or extra toppings. It relies on quality, balance, and restraint—and that’s exactly why it has remained timeless.
Why Caprese Salad Is a Classic for a Reason
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Fresh, clean flavors that don’t feel heavy
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Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian
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Quick to assemble with minimal prep
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Elegant enough for entertaining, simple enough for everyday meals
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Easy to customize without losing its identity
When you use high-quality ingredients, caprese salad feels complete without needing anything extra.
Equipment
Keep it simple with a few basic tools:
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Sharp knife
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Cutting board
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Serving platter or wide bowl
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Small spoon or drizzle bottle for olive oil
Ingredients List
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3 to 4 ripe tomatoes (vine-ripened or heirloom preferred)
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8 oz fresh mozzarella (ball or log, sliced)
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Fresh basil leaves
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Extra-virgin olive oil
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Flaky sea salt or kosher salt
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Freshly cracked black pepper (optional)
Optional additions (use sparingly):
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Balsamic glaze
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Cherry tomatoes (for variation)
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Burrata instead of mozzarella
Timing & Servings
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Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
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Cook Time: None
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Total Time: 15 minutes
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Servings: 4 servings
How to Make a Classic Caprese Salad
Step 1. Choose the Right Tomatoes
Tomatoes are the backbone of this dish. Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes with good acidity and sweetness. Heirloom tomatoes add visual interest, while vine-ripened tomatoes deliver reliable flavor.
Slice them evenly—not too thin, not too thick—to keep the balance with the cheese.
Step 2. Slice the Mozzarella
Use fresh mozzarella packed in water, not low-moisture shredded cheese. Slice it to a similar thickness as the tomatoes so every bite feels balanced.
If using burrata, tear it gently rather than slicing.
Step 3. Assemble with Intention
Arrange tomato slices and mozzarella alternately on a platter, slightly overlapping. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the layers rather than chopping them—this keeps their aroma intact.
Step 4. Season Simply
Drizzle lightly with extra-virgin olive oil. Sprinkle with salt just before serving to prevent excess moisture from drawing out too early.
Add black pepper if desired, but keep it subtle.
Expert Tips for the Best Caprese Salad
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Use room-temperature tomatoes for maximum flavor
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Salt just before serving to avoid excess liquid
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Don’t overdress—olive oil should enhance, not dominate
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Tear basil by hand to preserve aroma
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Keep ingredients simple and high quality
Caprese salad is unforgiving to shortcuts, but incredibly rewarding when done right.
Popular Caprese Variations (Without Losing the Soul)
Caprese with Balsamic Glaze
A light drizzle of balsamic glaze adds sweetness and depth. Use sparingly so it doesn’t overpower the freshness.
Cherry Tomato Caprese
Perfect for picnics or skewers. Halve cherry tomatoes and pair with mozzarella pearls.
Burrata Caprese
Swap mozzarella for burrata for a richer, creamier texture—best served immediately.
Avocado Caprese
Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess while keeping the salad fresh and light.
Serving Suggestions
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Grilled chicken or fish
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Pasta dishes
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Crusty bread or focaccia
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Summer dinners and brunch spreads
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As a starter for Italian-style meals
It also works well plated individually for a more polished presentation.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
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Calories: 220–260
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Protein: 10–12g
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Fat: 16–20g
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Carbohydrates: 6–8g
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Fiber: 1–2g
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Sugar: 4–5g
Values vary based on cheese quantity and olive oil used.
Storage Tips
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Store leftovers in an airtight container
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Consume within 24 hours
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Expect softer texture after refrigeration
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Avoid freezing
For best results, assemble just before serving.
For more balanced and refreshing meal ideas, you may also enjoy Mediterranean Lentil Salad, Asian Chicken Crunch Salad, or BLT Pasta Salad.
Caprese Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Tomatoes are the backbone of this dish. Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes with good acidity and sweetness. Heirloom tomatoes add visual interest, while vine-ripened tomatoes deliver reliable flavor.
- Slice them evenly—not too thin, not too thick—to keep the balance with the cheese.
- Use fresh mozzarella packed in water, not low-moisture shredded cheese. Slice it to a similar thickness as the tomatoes so every bite feels balanced.
- If using burrata, tear it gently rather than slicing.
- Arrange tomato slices and mozzarella alternately on a platter, slightly overlapping. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the layers rather than chopping them—this keeps their aroma intact.
- Drizzle lightly with extra-virgin olive oil. Sprinkle with salt just before serving to prevent excess moisture from drawing out too early.
- Add black pepper if desired, but keep it subtle.
Conclusion
Caprese salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients and thoughtful simplicity. With ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and quality olive oil, it delivers flavor that feels both comforting and refined.
When you focus on ingredient quality and careful assembly, caprese salad becomes more than just a salad—it becomes an experience. Simple, elegant, and always satisfying, it’s a recipe worth returning to again and again.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I make caprese salad ahead of time?
It’s best assembled just before serving, but ingredients can be prepped separately.
2. Should I refrigerate caprese salad?
Serve at room temperature for best flavor.
3. Is balsamic glaze traditional?
No, but it’s a popular modern addition when used lightly.
4. Can I use dried basil?
Fresh basil is essential—dried basil won’t deliver the same aroma or flavor.
5. What cheese works best besides mozzarella?
Burrata is the best alternative for a richer version.