Nothing captures the taste of summer quite like a classic tomato, basil, and mozzarella salad.
This light yet satisfying dish combines fresh vegetables with creamy cheese and heart-healthy olive oil, offering a balance of plant-based nutrients, protein, and good fats.
Low in carbs and rich in antioxidants, it’s a wholesome option that comes together in minutes, making it perfect for everyday meals, quick gatherings, or a refreshing side dish.
Tomato, Basil, and Mozzarella Salad
Equipment
- 1 Tart dish (or serving platter)
- 1 Sharp Knife
- 1 Cutting board
Ingredients
- 4 large ripe tomatoes
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese
- 15 fresh basil leaves
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 pinch salt to taste
- 1 pinch black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Begin by choosing ripe, firm tomatoes that are vibrant in color and slightly soft to the touch. Rinse them well under cool running water, then pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Using a sharp knife, slice the tomatoes into even, medium-thick rounds. The slices should be thick enough to hold their shape but thin enough to bite into easily, ensuring the salad feels light and refreshing. Set the tomato slices aside on a plate.
- Slice the Mozzarella: Take the ball of fresh mozzarella and drain any liquid it may be packed in. Place it on a cutting board and, using a clean sharp knife, cut it into slices of similar thickness to the tomatoes. This consistency in size helps create a balanced bite in every forkful and makes the salad visually appealing when assembled. If the mozzarella is extra soft, chill it briefly in the fridge before slicing to make it easier to handle.
- Prepare the Basil Leaves: Select fresh basil leaves that are whole and unblemished for the best aroma and flavor. Rinse them gently under cool water, then pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Keep the leaves whole if you prefer a traditional look, or tear them into smaller pieces for a rustic style. Whole leaves tucked between slices add elegance, while torn basil provides bursts of flavor in each bite.
- Arrange the Salad Base: Choose a tart dish, shallow platter, or flat serving plate as the base for your salad. Start by laying out the tomato slices in a circular pattern or slightly overlapping rows, depending on the shape of your dish. Place each tomato slice so that a bit of the previous slice is still visible, creating a scalloped effect that looks beautiful and inviting.
- Layer with Cheese and Basil: Slide a slice of mozzarella cheese next to each tomato slice, tucking a fresh basil leaf between them. Continue alternating tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil until the entire dish is filled. This layering technique creates an eye-catching presentation and ensures every serving has the perfect combination of flavors—juicy tomato, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil.
- Season with Olive Oil: Once the arrangement is complete, slowly drizzle extra virgin olive oil evenly over the salad. Pouring in a thin, steady stream allows the oil to coat the tomatoes and mozzarella without making the dish greasy. The olive oil not only enhances flavor but also adds healthy fats that make the salad more satisfying.
- Finish with Salt and Pepper: Sprinkle a light pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper over the salad. Be gentle with the salt since mozzarella already contains sodium, and the tomatoes will release their natural juices. The pepper should add just enough warmth to balance the richness of the cheese and the freshness of the basil.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. This short resting time helps the flavors meld together and allows the olive oil and seasonings to soak slightly into the tomatoes and mozzarella, making every bite more flavorful and balanced.
- Serve and Enjoy: Present the salad directly in the tart dish or carefully transfer it onto individual plates. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled meats, or a simple pasta dish. Each bite should capture the essence of summer—refreshing, light, and satisfying.
Notes
- Use ripe, seasonal tomatoes for the best flavor and juiciness. Heirloom or vine-ripened varieties work especially well.
- Fresh mozzarella is ideal, but burrata can be substituted for a creamier twist.
- Extra virgin olive oil gives the salad a rich, fruity finish—avoid lighter or refined oils.
- For a rustic style, chop the tomatoes and mozzarella into bite-sized pieces and toss them with torn basil leaves.
- You can create layered “Caprese towers” by stacking slices of tomato, mozzarella, and basil vertically for a more elegant presentation.
- A drizzle of balsamic glaze or reduction can add a sweet-tangy balance to the flavors, though it is optional.
- Always let the salad rest briefly before serving; this step deepens the flavors and brings everything together beautifully.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Flavor
The secret to an exceptional Caprese salad lies in the quality of ingredients.
Tomatoes should be at their peak ripeness—juicy, vibrant, and slightly sweet.
If tomatoes are out of season, a sprinkle of sea salt helps draw out their natural flavor.
Mozzarella should be fresh and creamy, ideally packed in brine for moisture.
Basil leaves should be whole and freshly picked, never wilted.
Finally, using high-quality extra virgin olive oil with a bold, fruity profile elevates the dish and ties all the components together.
A little patience also goes a long way—allowing the salad to rest for a few minutes helps the flavors meld into a harmonious balance.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
Caprese salad is versatile enough to shine on its own or alongside a variety of dishes.
It makes an elegant appetizer before a pasta dinner or a refreshing side to grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
For a casual meal, serve it with crusty artisan bread that can soak up the flavorful juices.
If you want to turn it into a light entrée, simply add grilled vegetables, avocado slices, or a handful of arugula for extra greens.
For gatherings, you can present it on skewers as finger food or prepare small stacked towers for a restaurant-style look.
A chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon also pairs beautifully with this salad.
Storage Tips for Freshness and Flavor
Caprese salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the tomatoes release their juices and the mozzarella softens over time.
However, if you need to store leftovers, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container.
Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 1 day, though the texture of the tomatoes may become softer.
To revive the flavors, allow the salad to come to room temperature before serving again, and drizzle with a little extra olive oil if needed.
Avoid freezing, as both tomatoes and mozzarella lose their texture after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Caprese salad ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best assembled shortly before serving. If you want to prepare ahead, slice the tomatoes and mozzarella, store them separately, and assemble with basil and olive oil just before mealtime.
2. What type of mozzarella works best?
Fresh mozzarella packed in brine is ideal for its creaminess and delicate flavor.
Bocconcini (small mozzarella balls) also work well for bite-sized salads, while burrata adds a luxurious cream-filled twist.
3. Do I need balsamic vinegar for this recipe?
Not necessarily. Traditional Caprese salad relies on the natural flavors of tomato, basil, mozzarella, and olive oil.
Balsamic vinegar or glaze is an optional addition that adds sweetness and tang, but purists prefer the classic version without it.
4. What tomatoes are best for Caprese?
Heirloom tomatoes are excellent for their vibrant colors and complex flavors.
Vine-ripened or Roma tomatoes are also popular choices because they’re juicy yet firm enough to slice neatly.
5. Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely. Substitute the mozzarella with a high-quality vegan mozzarella or a cashew-based cheese alternative.
The rest of the ingredients remain naturally plant-based, making it a fresh and satisfying vegan dish.
