Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
A colorful, protein-rich Caprese Salad featuring fresh heirloom tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, finished with a lightly sweet balsamic glaze. Quick to assemble, low in carbs, and full of flavor, it’s a perfect side dish or light meal any day of the week.
Equipment
- 1 Small Saucepan
- 1 serving platter
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Spoon for drizzling
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 3 large heirloom tomatoes assorted colors, sliced ¼" thick
- 1 lb fresh mozzarella sliced ¼" thick
- 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Balsamic Glaze:
- 1 cup high-quality balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
- Prepare the Balsamic Glaze: Begin by creating the luscious balsamic glaze. Pour 1 cup of high-quality balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon of honey to balance the tang with a gentle sweetness. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to prevent scorching. Allow it to reduce slowly until the liquid has thickened by about half, forming a syrupy consistency. This process usually takes around 15 minutes. Once done, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the glaze cool slightly. Transfer it to an airtight container if making ahead—it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Before drizzling, bring it to room temperature for optimal pourability.
- Slice the Tomatoes: While the glaze is reducing, focus on the star of the salad: the tomatoes. Select 3 large heirloom tomatoes, ideally in a variety of colors for a visually appealing presentation. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry. Using a sharp chef’s knife, carefully trim the ends and slice the tomatoes into uniform ¼-inch thick rounds. Consistency is key; even slices ensure the salad layers evenly and the flavors balance perfectly in each bite. Set the tomato slices aside on a clean cutting board or plate.
- Prepare the Mozzarella: Next, handle the mozzarella with care, as its delicate texture can tear easily. Slice 1 pound of fresh mozzarella into ¼-inch thick rounds to match the tomato slices. Try to keep the slices uniform so that each layer of the salad aligns beautifully with the tomato. For an extra touch, gently pat the slices with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This helps prevent the salad from becoming watery when plated.
- Arrange the Basil Leaves: Rinse 1 bunch of fresh basil under cold water, then gently pat the leaves dry. Select whole, unblemished leaves for presentation. The basil provides an aromatic lift and a vibrant green contrast. For a more uniform look, choose leaves of similar size to fit neatly between the tomato and mozzarella slices. Set them aside in a small bowl until you begin assembling the salad.
- Assemble the Salad: Choose a large, flat serving platter for an elegant presentation. Begin layering by placing a tomato slice first. Next, add a mozzarella slice on top, followed by a fresh basil leaf. Continue alternating layers until all ingredients are used, arranging them in a slightly overlapping circular or linear pattern for visual appeal. Sprinkle a pinch of salt evenly over the top to enhance flavor, then grind fresh black pepper to taste. Take a step back and admire the colorful arrangement—presentation is part of the experience!
- Drizzle the Glaze: Using a spoon, lightly drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze over the layered salad. Aim for an even distribution without over-saturating, so the glaze enhances each bite without overpowering the fresh flavors. The shiny glaze adds a sweet-tangy finish and makes the dish visually striking. For an extra flourish, you can add a few small basil leaves on top for garnish.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the Caprese Salad immediately to ensure the tomatoes and mozzarella remain fresh and vibrant. This salad is best enjoyed at room temperature to fully appreciate the flavor of the basil and the richness of the cheese. Pair it with grilled meats, crusty bread, or enjoy as a standalone light meal. Leftovers, if any, can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day, though the texture is best when freshly prepared.
Notes
- Choose firm, ripe heirloom tomatoes for the best flavor and texture. Varieties in different colors make the salad visually stunning.
- Fresh mozzarella works best; avoid pre-shredded or low-moisture varieties, as they lack creaminess and melt unevenly.
- Basil leaves should be fresh and vibrant; avoid wilted or discolored leaves to maintain flavor and appearance.
- Balsamic glaze can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- For a lighter version, you can omit the honey in the glaze or replace it with a natural sweetener like maple syrup.
- If preferred, cut tomatoes and mozzarella into chunks and toss with basil for a more casual, rustic presentation.
