Thank you so much for stopping by! Whether you’re in the mood for a light lunch, a no-fuss appetizer, or a beautiful side dish that practically makes itself, this EASY Caprese Salad is your answer. Made with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze—this Italian classic takes just 10 minutes to prep and looks like a masterpiece on your table!
This recipe is one of those how-is-this-so-simple-but-so-delicious dishes I make on repeat. So if you’re looking to bring effortless elegance to your kitchen, subscribe now and I’ll send this recipe (and more seasonal favorites) straight to your inbox. Let’s make simple taste spectacular!
What Is Caprese Salad?
Caprese Salad, or Insalata Caprese, is a traditional Italian salad that originated on the island of Capri. It’s a celebration of just a few peak-season ingredients—ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and a simple drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
It’s the kind of salad that reminds you how delicious fresh food can be when it’s treated simply. No fancy dressings, no complicated steps—just clean, classic flavors that never go out of style.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why this salad has become a staple in my summer (and honestly, year-round) kitchen:
✅ Only 5 Ingredients – Minimal, fresh, and flavorful.
✅ Ready in 10 Minutes – Chop, layer, drizzle. Done!
✅ No Cooking Required – Perfect for hot days or last-minute meals.
✅ Elegant Yet Effortless – Looks like a restaurant dish, tastes even better.
✅ Naturally Gluten-Free & Vegetarian – And so easy to adapt.
What Does Caprese Salad Taste Like?
Caprese is light and luxurious all at once. Each bite balances the sweet acidity of ripe tomatoes with the mild creaminess of mozzarella and the peppery freshness of basil. Add in that balsamic glaze and a drizzle of good olive oil, and you’ve got a mouthful of bold, bright flavor with zero heaviness.
It’s the flavor of sunshine, Italian summer, and garden simplicity—all on one plate.
Health & Enjoyment Benefits
This salad isn’t just easy and delicious—it’s good for you, too:
Packed with Antioxidants – Thanks to tomatoes and basil.
Rich in Calcium and Protein – From fresh mozzarella.
Naturally Low Carb – Keto-friendly if you skip the balsamic glaze.
Hydrating & Light – Especially refreshing during warm weather.
Satisfying Yet Guilt-Free – Ideal for mindful eating.
Ingredients
You only need five core ingredients to make this Caprese salad magic happen:
3–4 ripe tomatoes, sliced (heirloom or vine-ripened work best)
8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced into rounds
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, whole or torn
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Tools You’ll Need
Just the basics for this one—Caprese keeps it simple:
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Serving platter or shallow bowl
Small spoon or squeeze bottle for the glaze
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
Want to get a little creative with your Caprese? Here are some fun ways to switch it up:
Add avocado for a creamy twist.
Swap mozzarella for burrata if you want extra indulgence.
Use cherry tomatoes and ciliegine mozzarella for a bite-sized version.
Add prosciutto for a salty, savory upgrade.
Sprinkle with pine nuts or pistachios for crunch.
Try flavored olive oil (garlic or lemon) for even more depth.
How to Make Caprese Salad (Step-by-Step)
This couldn’t be easier—just layer and drizzle!
Step 1: Slice the Tomatoes and Mozzarella
Use a sharp knife to slice tomatoes and mozzarella into even 1/4-inch rounds. If using heirloom tomatoes, you can slice into wedges for a more rustic look.
Step 2: Arrange on a Platter
Alternate slices of tomato and mozzarella in a circular or shingled pattern on a serving platter. Tuck fresh basil leaves between each layer or scatter on top.
Step 3: Drizzle with Olive Oil and Balsamic
Drizzle everything with extra virgin olive oil, followed by balsamic glaze. If using a squeeze bottle, go for a zig-zag or spiral pattern for a gorgeous finish.
Step 4: Season & Serve
Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt and a crack of fresh black pepper. Serve immediately!
What to Serve with Caprese Salad
Caprese Salad is a perfect side dish or appetizer, but it can also become the star of the table. Try it with:
Grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp
Fresh pasta or pesto pasta
Crusty artisan bread or garlic toast
Chilled rosé or sparkling water with lemon
Tomato basil soup for a full-on garden-inspired meal
Or serve it as a starter before pizza night—it’s a classic Italian combo!
Tips for Success
Want your Caprese Salad to be totally next-level? Here are my go-to tips:
🍅 Use the Best Tomatoes You Can Find
This salad lives and dies by the quality of its tomatoes. Choose ripe, in-season tomatoes that are firm but juicy. Heirloom varieties add extra flavor and color.
🧀 Choose Fresh Mozzarella
Look for mozzarella packed in water for that soft, creamy texture. Skip the low-moisture block versions—they just won’t be the same.
🌿 Don’t Skimp on Basil
Use whole leaves for bold flavor or tear them gently with your hands (not a knife!) to keep them fragrant and fresh.
🧂 Season Simply
A sprinkle of flaky sea salt and fresh-cracked black pepper brings all the flavors together. No need to overdo it.
🥗 Serve Immediately
Caprese is best enjoyed fresh, right after you’ve assembled it. The salt draws out moisture quickly, so don’t let it sit too long.
Storage Instructions
Caprese Salad is at its absolute best when served fresh—but if you have leftovers (or want to prep ahead for a gathering), here’s how to keep it tasting delicious:
🧊 Refrigerator Storage
Store any leftover Caprese Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The tomatoes may release some juice, and the basil can wilt slightly, but the flavors will still be tasty.
🍅 Make-Ahead Tip
For the freshest texture and presentation, you can slice the tomatoes and mozzarella ahead of time, then store them separately in the fridge. Assemble and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze just before serving to keep everything vibrant and beautiful.
🚫 Freezing Not Recommended
Caprese Salad does not freeze well. Fresh mozzarella and tomatoes lose their texture after thawing, so it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage only.
💡 Pro Tip: If leftovers seem a bit watery after refrigeration, simply drain off excess liquid and add a few fresh basil leaves or a splash of olive oil to revive it before serving again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use dried basil?
Fresh basil is essential to a true Caprese flavor. Dried won’t provide the same brightness or aroma.
Is balsamic glaze the same as balsamic vinegar?
Not quite! Balsamic glaze is balsamic vinegar that’s been reduced and sweetened—it’s thicker, syrupy, and perfect for drizzling. You can also reduce your own!
Can I use burrata instead of mozzarella?
Yes! Burrata adds an ultra-creamy center that takes this salad to the next level.
What’s the best tomato for Caprese?
Heirloom, vine-ripened, or even Roma tomatoes work beautifully. Cherry tomatoes are great for mini versions.
Conclusion
This EASY Caprese Salad is proof that a handful of fresh, quality ingredients can create something truly magical. It’s simple, satisfying, and stunning on the plate—no surprise it’s a favorite across Italian tables and summer potlucks alike.
Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a side, or the star of your spread, this 10-minute Caprese will always hit the mark. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do—and that it becomes one of your go-to recipes for warm, breezy days.
Try More Simple & Fresh Favorites:
If this Easy Caprese Salad brought a little sunshine to your table, you’re going to love these other recipes that celebrate fresh ingredients, effortless prep, and vibrant flavor. Each one is made with simplicity in mind—but tastes like something you’d serve to impress.
🍉 Watermelon Strawberry Salad with Mint & Lime
Juicy watermelon, sweet strawberries, and a honey-lime dressing come together in this ultra-refreshing salad. It’s bright, hydrating, and perfect for warm-weather gatherings.
🥒 Cucumber Feta Salad with Lemon-Dill Dressing
Crisp cucumbers, creamy feta, and a zesty lemon dressing make this salad irresistibly light and tangy. Ideal as a side for grilled meats or as a quick lunch on its own.
🍑 Peach Burrata Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Ripe peaches and creamy burrata cheese topped with basil and balsamic reduction—this one’s a total showstopper. Serve it on a big platter and let the oohs and ahhs roll in.
🥑 Avocado Cucumber Salad with Fresh Herbs
Creamy avocado meets cool cucumber and a lemony herb dressing in this easy, elegant salad. It’s perfect on toast, in a bowl, or as a vibrant side.
🌽 Charred Corn & Tomato Salad with Basil Oil
Sweet corn and sun-ripened tomatoes tossed with fresh basil oil and sea salt—this is summer simplicity at its best. Bonus: It’s great warm or cold!
Tried this recipe? I would love to see your beautiful plates! Share your Caprese Salad photos on Pinterest and tag me so I can celebrate your fresh, summery creations 💚
And don’t forget to subscribe for more 10-minute meals, garden-fresh recipes, and simple dishes that make you look like a kitchen rockstar.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Serves 4)
Calories: ~220
Fat: 17g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: 10g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 230mg
EASY Caprese Salad (10 minutes prep!)
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This EASY Caprese Salad is a 10-minute masterpiece made with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a balsamic glaze drizzle. Elegant, effortless, and bursting with Italian sunshine on every plate.
Ingredients
- 3–4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced into rounds
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, whole or torn
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into even 1/4-inch rounds using a sharp knife.
- Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices alternately in a circular or shingled pattern on a serving platter.
- Tuck fresh basil leaves between the slices or scatter them over the top.
- Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze over the salad. Use a squeeze bottle for a decorative touch.
- Sprinkle with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use the best in-season tomatoes and fresh mozzarella you can find. Assemble just before serving for best texture and presentation. Tear basil with hands, not a knife, to preserve aroma.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: caprese, salad, tomatoes, mozzarella, balsamic, easy, summer