Caprese Salad With Fresh Mozzarella Recipe | How to Cook It So Good?
Experience the vibrant flavors of Italy with this classic Caprese salad. This simple yet elegant dish combines ripe, juicy tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil, all drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze.
Perfect as a light lunch, a refreshing appetizer, or a side dish to your favorite Italian meal, this Caprese salad is a true celebration of fresh, high-quality ingredients. In just 25 minutes, you can bring this delightful taste of summer to your table.
Ingredients Required
Here’s what you’ll need to create this simple yet delicious salad:
- 2 cups balsamic vinegar
- 3 ripe tomatoes, sliced thick
- 12 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced thick
- Fresh basil leaves
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
How to cook Caprese Salad?
Follow these simple steps to assemble your beautiful and delicious Caprese salad.
Step 1: Prepare the Balsamic Glaze
In a small saucepan, bring the balsamic vinegar to a boil over medium-low heat. Cook until the balsamic has reduced to a thicker glaze, which takes 10 to 20 minutes. Remove it from the heat, transfer it to a bowl or cruet, and allow it to cool.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
When you’re ready to serve, arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices on a platter. Place basil leaves between the slices. Drizzle olive oil over the top of the salad, followed by the balsamic reduction. Extra balsamic reduction can be stored in the fridge for later use.
Step 3: Season and Serve
Finish with a sprinkling of salt and pepper. Serve as a lunch with crusty bread, or alongside a beef main course for dinner.
Your Caprese Questions Answered
What are the best tomatoes for Caprese salad?
Heirloom tomatoes are a fantastic choice for their rich flavor and vibrant colors. However, any ripe, in-season tomatoes will work well. The key is to use the freshest tomatoes you can find.
Can I make Caprese salad ahead of time?
It’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to ensure the ingredients are at their freshest. However, you can prepare the balsamic glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
What can I serve with Caprese salad?
Caprese salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it with crusty bread for a light lunch, as an appetizer, or as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
How should I store leftover Caprese salad?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. The tomatoes may release some water, but the salad will still be enjoyable.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Caprese
For the best flavor, use high-quality extra virgin olive oil. The fruity notes of a good olive oil will complement the other ingredients beautifully. Also, don’t be shy with the fresh basil – its aromatic flavor is a key component of the dish.
