This summer, I made Caprese salad almost every week. It’s so simple, but the flavors are amazing. With just a few fresh ingredients—tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil—you get a dish that tastes bright, juicy, and creamy. It’s perfect for hot days when you want something light but still full of taste.

I love how easy it is to prepare. There’s no cooking, and you only need a knife and a plate. The sweet tomatoes and soft cheese go so well together, and the fresh basil makes the whole thing smell wonderful.

You can eat it on its own, as a snack, or serve it with bread or pasta. It always looks beautiful with its red, white, and green colors.

For serving, I like to place the slices in a circle on a big white plate. I drizzle a little olive oil on top, maybe a bit of balsamic glaze, and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. It’s great as a starter before dinner or a light side dish with grilled meat or fish.

Why is this Caprese Salad healthy?

Caprese salad is healthy because it uses natural, whole ingredients. Tomatoes are full of vitamins and antioxidants, especially vitamin C. Mozzarella gives protein and calcium, while olive oil provides healthy fats. Basil also has vitamins and adds flavor without extra calories. This salad is low in carbs and makes a great fresh choice.

Ingredients

• 3 large ripe tomatoes (sliced)
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella (sliced)
• Fresh basil leaves (a handful)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze or vinegar (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Serving plate or platter
• Small spoon (for olive oil or glaze)

How to make Caprese Salad

Step 1

Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into even, medium-thick rounds. Wash and pat dry the basil leaves.

Step 2

On a large plate or platter, layer the tomato slices, mozzarella slices, and basil leaves in an alternating pattern (like a fan or circle).

Step 3

Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze if using. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4

Serve immediately at room temperature for the best flavor.

Tips to Make This Perfect

• Use ripe tomatoes – Soft but not mushy tomatoes taste best and give a sweet, rich flavor.
• Use fresh mozzarella – The texture is creamy and soft, much better than packaged slices.
• Use fresh basil – Dried basil has less flavor. Fresh leaves make a big difference.
• Slice ingredients evenly – Even slices help everything blend together and look great.
• Drizzle, don’t pour – A light hand with olive oil or balsamic glaze keeps the flavors balanced.
• Add salt just before serving – Salt draws out water, so wait to season until the last moment.
• Try heirloom tomatoes – They come in different colors and taste even better.

How to Serve Caprese Salad?

I like to serve Caprese salad cold or at room temperature. The flavors come out more when it’s not too cold. It’s great as a first dish before dinner or as a light lunch. I sometimes add a little bread on the side to make it more filling.

This salad looks beautiful on a big plate. You can lay the tomato and mozzarella slices in rows or a circle. Add basil leaves in between for color. A small drizzle of olive oil on top makes it shine and taste better.

For parties, you can make small Caprese skewers. Just place a cherry tomato, a mozzarella ball, and a basil leaf on a toothpick. It’s a fun and easy way to serve this salad to guests.

How to Store Leftovers?

If you have leftover Caprese salad, put it in a container with a lid and keep it in the fridge. Eat it within one day, because the tomatoes can get soft and watery.

It’s best to store the ingredients separately if you want to make it ahead. Keep the sliced tomatoes, cheese, and basil in separate containers and put them together just before serving.

FAQ

• Can I use cherry tomatoes? Yes! They are sweet and perfect for small servings or skewers.
• Can I use other cheese? Fresh mozzarella is best, but burrata or bocconcini also work.
• Do I need balsamic glaze? No, it’s optional. The salad is great with just olive oil and salt.
• Can I make this ahead of time? It’s best fresh, but you can prep the parts early.
• What kind of olive oil is best? Extra virgin olive oil gives the best taste.
• Is this salad good for kids? Yes! Most kids like cheese and tomatoes.
• Can I add avocado? Yes, avocado goes well with the other flavors.
• Can I add meat? You can serve it with prosciutto or grilled chicken.
• Can I keep leftovers overnight? Yes, but it’s best to eat it the same day.
• Can I grow my own basil? Yes! Basil grows well in small pots and tastes best fresh.

Conclusion

This Caprese salad is a fast, easy, and healthy dish that works for any summer meal. It looks beautiful, tastes fresh, and needs just a few simple ingredients. Try it once, and it might become one of your go-to favorites for warm weather!