Name: Fresh Caprese Salad with Tomatoes, Mozzarella, and Basil Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 large tomatoes, sliced; 8 ounces mozzarella, sliced; handful of fresh basil leaves; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic reduction; flaky sea salt, to taste; freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 89 reviews

If you are craving a vibrant and refreshing dish that feels like a burst of summer on your plate, the Fresh Caprese Salad with Tomatoes, Mozzarella, and Basil Recipe is your perfect go-to. This classic Italian salad balances juicy ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves with just the right drizzle of olive oil and a touch of balsamic reduction, creating an irresistible harmony of flavors and textures. It’s simple, elegant, and so satisfying, whether as a light lunch, a starter, or a colorful side dish that brightens any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate on a white marbled surface holds a half circle of alternating layers of bright red tomato slices and smooth white mozzarella slices, with five layers total, starting with a slice of tomato on the left side, followed by mozzarella, tomato, mozzarella, and ending with tomato on the right. Next to the plate, a wooden cutting board has more red tomato slices arranged in a row with a large knife resting on it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Fresh Caprese Salad with Tomatoes, Mozzarella, and Basil Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is essential, contributing unique flavor, texture, and visual appeal to this timeless dish.

3 large tomatoes: Choose ripe, firm tomatoes for juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
8 ounces mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella offers a creamy, milky softness that pairs perfectly with the tomatoes.
Handful of fresh basil leaves: Basil brings an aromatic, peppery freshness that lifts the entire salad.
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Use a high-quality olive oil to add richness and smoothness.
1 tablespoon balsamic reduction: This syrupy glaze adds a lovely tangy sweetness that enhances all the flavors.
Flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings that highlight and balance the salad’s taste.

How to Make Fresh Caprese Salad with Tomatoes, Mozzarella, and Basil Recipe

Step 1: Slice Your Tomatoes and Mozzarella

Start by slicing your tomatoes and mozzarella into even, roughly ¼-inch thick rounds. This thickness allows for the perfect bite where tomato juice and mozzarella creaminess mingle effortlessly. Using ripe but firm tomatoes ensures your slices hold their shape well without becoming mushy.

Step 2: Arrange the Ingredients Alternately on a Plate

On a large serving dish, alternately layer the tomato and mozzarella slices, creating a beautiful circular or linear pattern. This not only looks stunning but lets each mouthful include the full spectrum of flavors, from juicy tomato to soft mozzarella.

Step 3: Add Fresh Basil Leaves

Tuck fresh basil leaves between the alternating tomato and mozzarella slices. Basil leaves should be whole or lightly torn to maintain their aromatic oils and striking green color that contrasts delightfully with red and white.

Step 4: Drizzle with Olive Oil and Balsamic Reduction

Generously drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the entire salad to add a smooth, fruity richness. Follow with balsamic reduction, artfully drizzled across the top for sweetness and acidity that pulls all the ingredients together.

Step 5: Season with Sea Salt and Black Pepper

Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. The salt enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and mozzarella, while the pepper adds a subtle hint of warmth and complexity.

How to Serve Fresh Caprese Salad with Tomatoes, Mozzarella, and Basil Recipe

A white round plate on a white marbled surface holds a simple Caprese salad arranged in a circular pattern. There are alternating layers of thick red tomato slices and white mozzarella cheese slices, with each tomato slice showing its juicy, slightly glossy texture and each mozzarella slice smooth and soft. Bright green fresh basil leaves are evenly placed on top of the tomato and mozzarella layers, adding a pop of color and freshness to the dish. To the left, a small white plate holds extra basil leaves. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Fresh Caprese Salad with Tomatoes, Mozzarella, and Basil Recipe, consider adding a few garnishes such as thinly sliced red onions for mild bite, toasted pine nuts for crunch, or a sprinkle of crushed chili flakes for a hint of heat. These additions can add an exciting twist without overshadowing the classic ingredients.

Side Dishes

This salad shines as a refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats, seafood, or pasta. Serving it alongside crusty artisan bread or a light minestrone soup transforms your meal into a perfectly balanced Italian feast that feels effortless but thoughtfully composed.

Creative Ways to Present

For a beautiful presentation, try layering the salad in a glass trifle bowl or stacking tomato and mozzarella slices vertically on skewers for an elegant bite-sized appetizer. Another charming idea is to serve individual salads on small plates arranged like flower petals, making your dish as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers from your Fresh Caprese Salad with Tomatoes, Mozzarella, and Basil Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, because fresh tomatoes and mozzarella can release water over time, it’s best to consume within one day for optimal texture and flavor.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well. Freezing mozzarella affects its texture, and tomatoes will become mushy upon thawing, so avoid freezing to preserve the dish’s integrity.

Reheating

Since this is a fresh salad, reheating is not recommended. It’s designed to be served chilled or at room temperature to keep its refreshing brightness and creamy texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use other types of tomatoes in this Fresh Caprese Salad with Tomatoes, Mozzarella, and Basil Recipe?

Absolutely! Heirloom tomatoes, cherry tomatoes cut in halves, or vine-ripened tomatoes all work beautifully. Just make sure they are ripe and flavorful to maintain that classic Caprese taste.

Is it necessary to use balsamic reduction instead of regular balsamic vinegar?

Balsamic reduction adds a sweeter, thicker glaze which complements the salad wonderfully. If you don’t have it on hand, regular balsamic vinegar can be used as a substitute but add it sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.

Can I make this salad vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute mozzarella with plant-based cheese alternatives or use slices of avocado for creaminess while keeping the other ingredients the same for a fresh, vegan-friendly take.

What is the best way to slice the mozzarella for this recipe?

Using a sharp knife or even dental floss, slice the mozzarella into even rounds about ¼ inch thick. Uniform slices help with presentation and ensure every bite is balanced.

Can I prepare the Fresh Caprese Salad with Tomatoes, Mozzarella, and Basil Recipe ahead of time?

You can assemble it shortly before serving, but avoid making it hours in advance as the tomatoes may release moisture and the basil can wilt, which affects texture and visual appeal.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about this Fresh Caprese Salad with Tomatoes, Mozzarella, and Basil Recipe that makes it a beloved classic time and again. Its simplicity is its strength; fresh, quality ingredients coming together in a dish that’s bursting with flavor and color. Take a little time to enjoy each element, and I promise this salad will become a favorite in your kitchen just like it is in mine.