Caprese Salad Recipe




Caprese Salad: The Summer Vibe You Didn’t Know You Needed

Okay, so do you ever just look at a dish and think, “Why is it so simple yet SO good?” Like, how does a couple of tomatoes and some cheese create a party in your mouth? That’s Caprese salad for ya, my friend. Honestly, if you haven’t made one this summer, what are you even doing?

Main dish photo
The finished dish — looks amazing, right?

Okay, Let’s Talk Ingredients

You ready? Here’s the deal—grab yourself some ripe tomatoes (like 1.5 lbs, which is usually about 3 or 4 medium ones). They *have* to be ripe—no sad, hard ones here. Then, you need fresh mozzarella, 12 to 16 oz. I’m talking about the good stuff, not that pre-shredded nonsense. Then, fresh basil leaves (I go for one bunch, which gets me a nice 1/3 cup).

Oh! And don’t forget the extra virgin olive oil for drizzling (3 tablespoons) and some sea salt and black pepper to give it that pop. If you wanna get fancy, a splash of balsamic glaze on top or on the side is like, chef’s kiss!

So Here’s Why I Make This Constantly

Alright, story time! So, a couple of summers ago, I was at this backyard BBQ and this girl (let’s call her Lisa) whipped up this stunning Caprese salad. I mean, it looked like a piece of art. I had never thought of a salad as Instagram-worthy before. I went in for a second—okay, fine, a third—helping, and I was just like, “Why on earth have I not been making this at home?”

After that day, I started making it every week. I mean, it’s the easiest thing ever and it reminds me of those sunny days with friends, good vibes, and laughter. Plus, it’s like I’m impressing everyone with my “culinary skills” when really, I’m just layering stuff.

Another beautiful angle of the dish
Just as gorgeous from this angle too!

The One Trick That Changes Everything

So here’s the game-changer—let the tomatoes hang out for a bit before you layer them! Like, just slice them and let them sit for 5-10 minutes. They start releasing their juices, which makes the whole salad even better. Trust me on this one!

Don’t Mess This Up (My Top Tips)

1. Don’t skimp on the salt! It really brings out the flavors.
2. Use super fresh ingredients. Seriously, go for a local farmer’s market or something. Freshness matters!
3. Don’t overthink the layering. Just have fun with it. (But if you do get all perfectionist about it, I won’t judge.)
4. Check the mozzarella! If it’s super wet, pat it down with paper towels before slicing. Less water = better salad.

How to Keep Them From Disappearing (Or, How to Store Them)

Okay, so here’s the truth: this salad is best fresh. But if you’ve got leftovers (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. It’ll be okay for a day or two, but after that, the tomatoes get mushy, and nobody wants that.

If You Liked This, You’ll Probably Like These Too

If this Caprese got you vibing, you should totally try making a Pasta Salad or a Bruschetta next! They both scream summer and are just as easy to throw together. Oh, and don’t forget about Pesto Chicken—it’s a winner!

So, what do you think? Are you ready to whip this up and become the Caprese Queen (or King) of summer? I seriously can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! 🍅🧀🌿

Caprese Salad Recipe

Caprese Salad Recipe

Flavor-packed Caprese Salad Recipe with amazing ingredients and incredible taste! Perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
Total Time
15 minutes

Category: Dinner
Yield: 6 servings servings

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs Ripe tomatoes ((3-4 medium) sliced 1/4” thick)
  • 12-16 oz Fresh mozzarella (sliced 1/4” thick)
  • 1 bunch Fresh basil ((1/3 cup basil leaves))
  • 3 Tbsp Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
  • 1/2 tsp Sea salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper (or to taste)
  • 2 Tbsp Balsamic glaze (or added to taste (optional))
  • Instructions

    1. Start by layering slices of tomatoes on a serving platter. Tuck slices of cheese between each tomato so both are visible then tuck whole basil leaves between the cheese and tomatoes. Arrange the slices so you can see every layer.
    2. Season generously with salt and pepper, drizzle all over with extra virgin olive oil and drizzle with 2 Tbsp balsamic glaze or add it to taste.

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