Go Back
Homemade Caprese Salad photo

Caprese Salad

This Caprese Salad is a summer delight! With fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, it’s a vibrant and refreshing dish.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 4 large vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes sliced into ½-inch slices
  • 1 pound fresh mozzarella cheese sliced into ½-inch slices
  • 15-20 leaves basil sliced into ribbons
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Kosher/sea salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic reduction optional

Equipment

  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Serving platter
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Start by washing your tomatoes and basil. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Slice the tomatoes into ½-inch thick slices and the fresh mozzarella into similarly sized slices. For the basil, stack the leaves, roll them tightly, and slice into thin ribbons, known as chiffonade.
  2. On a large serving platter, begin layering your ingredients. Alternate the tomato and mozzarella slices, overlapping them slightly to create a beautiful pattern. Once you’ve arranged the slices, sprinkle the basil ribbons over the top.
  3. Using a spoon or a small bowl, drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over the salad. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the visual appeal of your Caprese Salad.
  4. Next, season the salad with kosher or sea salt and freshly cracked pepper. Adjust the amounts to your preference, as these seasonings will elevate the natural flavors of the tomatoes and mozzarella.
  5. If you’re using balsamic reduction, drizzle it over the salad just before serving. This adds a sweet and tangy dimension that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, use tomatoes that are in season.
  • Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes after assembling to let the flavors meld together.
  • Experiment with different types of basil, such as Thai basil, for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.