Classic Caprese Salad

Some recipes prove that the simplest ingredients can create the most memorable dishes. Caprese salad is one of those timeless classics. With juicy ripe tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of quality olive oil, this Italian favorite is the perfect side dish for summer meals, backyard gatherings, or even a light lunch.
The secret to an exceptional Caprese salad isn't a complicated recipe—it's choosing the freshest ingredients you can find. When tomatoes are in season and basil is growing in the garden, this salad practically makes itself.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 10 minutes
• No cooking required
• Naturally gluten-free
• Perfect for entertaining
• Beautiful enough for special occasions yet easy enough for weeknight dinners

​Tips for the Best Caprese Salad
Choose ripe tomatoes. Vine-ripened, heirloom, or homegrown tomatoes provide the best flavor.
Use fresh mozzarella. Skip the pre-shredded or block cheese. Fresh mozzarella packed in water delivers the creamy texture that makes this salad shine.
Fresh basil is essential. The aroma and flavor simply can't be replaced with dried basil.
Don't refrigerate your tomatoes. Cold temperatures dull their flavor. Store them at room temperature until you're ready to assemble the salad.
Use good olive oil. Since there are so few ingredients, every one of them matters.

Delicious Variations

• Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
• Top with toasted pine nuts for a little crunch.
• Serve over a bed of arugula.
• Finish with a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or oregano.
• Add thin slices of peaches or strawberries for a sweet summer twist.

What to Serve With Caprese Salad
This refreshing salad pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled chicken
• Air fryer salmon
• Steak
• Italian pasta dishes
• Crusty artisan bread
• Homemade focaccia

It's also wonderful as part of a charcuterie board or served alongside grilled vegetables.

Classic Caprese Salad

Ingredients

• 3–4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Flaky sea salt, to taste
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions

1. Arrange alternating slices of tomato and fresh mozzarella on a serving platter.
2. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the tomato and mozzarella slices.
3. Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil.
4. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
5. If desired, finish with a light drizzle of balsamic glaze.
6. Serve immediately while the tomatoes are at their freshest.