Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze (Simple Italian Salad)
The iconic Italian salad featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Simple, elegant, and bursting with summer flavors—a celebration of quality ingredients.
Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella
Cut 4 large ripe tomatoes into 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick slices. Pat them gently with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Slice 16 oz fresh mozzarella into similar thickness (about 1/4 inch). If using mozzarella stored in water or brine, drain well and pat dry with paper towels.
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Use the ripest, most flavorful tomatoes you can find—this salad relies on quality ingredients.
- •Uniform slices make for prettier presentation.
Arrange the salad
On a large serving platter, arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices in an alternating pattern, slightly overlapping them. You can create a line, circle, or any decorative pattern you prefer. Tuck fresh basil leaves between and around the tomato and mozzarella slices.
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Alternating colors creates a beautiful visual presentation.
- •Room temperature ingredients have better flavor than cold.
Season and dress
Drizzle 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil evenly over the salad. Follow with 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or reduction, drizzling it artistically over the top. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Use your best olive oil—the quality really shines through.
- •Balsamic glaze is thick and syrupy; if using regular balsamic vinegar, reduce it first (see tips).
Serve
Serve the Caprese salad immediately at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with crusty Italian bread for soaking up the juices and oil. Optionally, garnish with extra fresh basil leaves.
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Don't assemble too far ahead—the tomatoes and mozzarella will release water.
- •This salad is best enjoyed within 30 minutes of assembly.
- Large serving platter
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Paper towels
- 💡To make balsamic glaze at home: Simmer 1 cup balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until reduced by half and syrupy. Let cool before using.
- 💡Buffalo mozzarella (mozzarella di bufala) is creamier and more flavorful than regular cow's milk mozzarella, but either works beautifully.
- 💡For a twist, try adding thin slices of avocado, prosciutto, or a drizzle of pesto alongside the traditional ingredients.
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