With the classic combo of tomatoes, basil, mozzarella, and simple dressing, this is an iconic side dish for any Italian meal… just like the ones I had when I visited the island of Capri in Italy! (There, they called it insalata Caprese.) And unlike other Italian-inspired salads like artichoke salad and arugula salad, a Caprese salad needs no greens.
Caprese Salad Ingredients
Here I explain the best ingredients for tomato Caprese salad, what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card below.
Tomatoes – Find the best tomatoes you can. Larger sizes are for better slicing. For even more fresh flavor, get heirloom tomatoes or in-season tomatoes at your local farmers market. Fresh Mozzarella Cheese – Use fresh, whole milk mozzarella for classic presentation. These often come in a pre-sliced ball for convenience. Avoid low-moisture varieties. Buffalo mozzarella would also be delicious, or you can use burrata to make a burrata salad. Fresh Basil Leaves – Larger leaves work better to match the size of the tomatoes and mozzarella. Olive Oil – Since it makes up the bulk of the Caprese salad dressing, use extra virgin olive oil for best flavor and classic taste. Balsamic Glaze – For drizzling. Although you can find pre-made balsamic reduction at many stores, you can also make homemade balsamic glaze easily. It’s as simple as reducing balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan. Sea Salt & Black Pepper
How To Make Caprese Salad
This section shows how to make easy Caprese salad with balsamic, including step-by-step photos and details about the technique, to help you visualize it. For full instructions, including amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card below.
Recipe Variations
The version here is how restaurants in Italy served Caprese salad when I visited, but feel free to change it up! Here are some ideas:
Cherry Tomatoes – Swap the slices of tomatoes for halved cherry or grape tomatoes instead. Cut mozzarella into bite-sized pieces (or use fresh mozzarella balls) and toss the salad instead of alternating ingredients. Avocado – Slice avocado thinly and alternate with other ingredients. You could also make this chopped avocado Caprese salad recipe. Pesto – Spoon or drizzle basil pesto on top of finished dish. This is in addition to usual dressing for Caprese salad. Greens – Chop the Caprese salad ingredients into bite-sized pieces and arrange on a bed of kale, spinach, or romaine. Then, add more dressing to taste. Chicken – Add chicken and greens with this chicken Caprese salad recipe. Peaches – Swap one tomato for a ripe peach. Slice and prepare as usual. Pasta – Chop everything into bite sized pieces, then toss with cooked and cooled pasta of choice. (You can also use either raw or cooked zucchini noodles.) Finally, dress as usual, adding more to taste if desired.
Storage Instructions
This recipe for Caprese salad tastes best when it’s fresh. However, you can cover and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. (If possible, store without the dressing.) Avoid freezing this salad.
What To Serve With Caprese Salad
If it has Italian flavors, it can go with this dish! Try these easy pairings:
Chicken – Caprese salads pair perfectly with creamy chicken marsala, easy balsamic chicken, or Mediterranean chicken for an Italian vibe. You can also keep it simple with more versatile chicken meals, like grilled chicken breast or garlic butter chicken. Steak – You could pair this easy salad with a classic sirloin steak, but for a lighter meal, I like to make air fryer steak bites. Pizza – Serve this salad with your fave pizza! I often choose veggie-centric pizza-inspired options, like portobello mushroom pizza, mini eggplant pizza, customizable pizza bowls, or cauliflower pizza crust. Noodles – Choose your favorite pasta dish, or opt for healthier eggplant lasagna, eggplant rollatini or spaghetti squash. Comforting Mains – I like to pair this light salad with stuffed cabbage rolls or a cabbage roll casserole for a comforting main dish.
More Caprese Salad Recipes
The classic flavor of Caprese shines in so many dishes! Try these other easy versions: Please enter your first name for your account. Your saved recipe will also be sent to your email.
