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Caprese salad recipe with heirloom tomatoes, mozzarella, basil leaves, and olive oil on a white plate.

Caprese Salad Recipe

This easy Caprese Salad recipe brings together fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil for a refreshing Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for summer or anytime you crave something light and flavorful.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Resting time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 ripe tomatoes Heirloom or vine-ripened preferred
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella Sliced or use bocconcini
  • 1 bunch fresh basil Whole leaves washed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Extra virgin
  • 1 tsp flaky sea salt Or kosher salt
  • black pepper Optional to taste
  • balsamic glaze Optional for garnish

Equipment

  • 1 Cutting board For slicing tomatoes and cheese
  • 1 Sharp knife To slice clean, even rounds
  • 1 Serving plate For presentation

Method
 

  1. 1 Slice the tomatoes and fresh mozzarella into ¼-inch thick slices. Pat mozzarella dry with a paper towel if needed.
  2. 2 Arrange the slices on a plate, alternating between tomato and mozzarella. Slightly overlap each piece.
  3. 3 Tuck whole basil leaves between the slices for flavor and presentation.
  4. 4 Drizzle olive oil evenly over the top.
  5. 5 Sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Add black pepper and balsamic glaze if desired.
  6. 6 Let rest for 5 minutes at room temperature. Serve immediately.

Notes

For extra flavor, use heirloom tomatoes in a variety of colors.
To make it portable, layer ingredients in a container and assemble on-site.
Cherry tomatoes and bocconcini are perfect for caprese skewers or mini versions.