Name: Caprese Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 220 g / 7 oz bocconcini (baby or cherry mozzarella), halved; 500 g / 1 lb cherry or grape tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped; Balsamic glaze or reduction, for drizzling; 1 small garlic clove, minced; 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (or other non-spicy mustard); 2.5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tbsp white wine vinegar; 1/4 tsp dried oregano; 1/4 tsp dried parsley; 1/4 tsp dried thyme (or rosemary); 1/2 tsp salt; Black pepper, to taste

↓ Jump to Recipe

If you're looking for a fresh, vibrant dish that bursts with flavor and color, this Caprese Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a perfect harmony of creamy bocconcini, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all brought together with a tangy, garlicky dressing and a luscious balsamic glaze drizzle. Whether you're making a light lunch, a stunning appetizer, or a side for dinner, this salad delivers a refreshing taste of Italy in every bite.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows one layer of fresh grape tomatoes, some whole and some cut lengthwise to show their juicy inside, arranged on the left side with a rich red color and smooth, shiny texture. Next to them, there is one layer of small white mozzarella balls, some whole and some cut in halves, showing a soft and smooth surface. Scattered evenly across and around both the tomatoes and mozzarella are bright green basil leaves with a smooth, slightly veined texture. All the ingredients are placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

One of the best things about this Caprese Salad Recipe is how simple yet essential the ingredients are. Each component not only enhances the flavor and texture but also adds a beautiful pop of color to the plate, making your salad as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

220 g/7oz bocconcini, halved: These soft mozzarella balls bring creamy, delicate texture that pairs perfectly with fresh tomatoes.

500 g/1 lb cherry or grape tomatoes, halved: Juicy, sweet tomatoes provide vibrant color and fresh flavor that brighten the salad.
½ cup basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped: Fresh basil adds an aromatic, herbaceous note that is signature to this dish.
Balsamic glaze, for drizzling: A sweet and tangy reduction that adds depth and a beautiful glossy finish.

1 small garlic clove, minced: Adds a subtle punch of savory flavor to the dressing.
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard: Helps emulsify the dressing while adding a mild tanginess without overwhelming heat.
2.5 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Brings richness and smoothness to the dressing, enhancing the salad’s flavor.

1 tablespoon white wine vinegar: A bright acidic note that balances the sweetness of tomatoes and balsamic glaze.
¼ teaspoon each dried oregano, parsley, thyme (or rosemary): A blend of herbs brings complexity and earthiness to the dressing.
½ teaspoon salt: Essential seasoning that brings out the natural flavors in every ingredient.

Black pepper: Freshly cracked for a pinch of heat and added aroma.

How to Make Caprese Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by combining the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, olive oil, white wine vinegar, dried herbs, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper in a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Give it a good shake until the dressing is well combined and slightly thickened. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as you like — this simple mixture is what ties all the salad ingredients together beautifully.

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, gently toss the halved cherry tomatoes, bocconcini, and most of the torn basil leaves. Pour your freshly made dressing over the top and toss everything together just enough to coat all the pieces without bruising the delicate mozzarella. This careful mixing ensures every bite bursts with balanced flavor while keeping the textures intact.

Step 3: Transfer and Finish with Balsamic Glaze

Transfer the dressed salad to a shallow serving bowl or platter for a lovely presentation. Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic glaze generously over the top and sprinkle with the remaining fresh basil. That glossy drizzle adds both a stunning visual contrast and a sweet-tart pop that perfectly complements the creamy cheese and fresh tomatoes.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Because the freshness of the ingredients is key to this Caprese Salad Recipe, serve it right after dressing and glazing. This helps the salad maintain its vibrant colors and crisp textures, making every mouthful bright and delicious.

How to Serve Caprese Salad Recipe

A white bowl filled with a colorful mix of halved bright red cherry tomatoes and small white mozzarella balls. Scattered fresh green basil leaves add a pop of green color throughout the dish. A light drizzle of golden olive oil is being poured over the salad from above, creating a glossy texture on the tomatoes and cheese. The salad sits on a white marbled surface, enhancing the fresh and vibrant look of the ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a small handful of toasted pine nuts can elevate this salad even further, adding a bit of crunch and a nutty accent. Fresh basil leaves give a fragrant finish, but feel free to experiment with a few arugula leaves for a subtle peppery twist that complements the creamy mozzarella and tangy dressing.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs incredibly well with rustic crusty bread to soak up any extra dressing and glaze. It also complements grilled vegetables or a simple pasta dish wonderfully, making it a versatile addition to any Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, layer the tomatoes and bocconcini slices in a circular pattern on a platter, alternating with basil leaves, then drizzle and garnish as usual. Alternatively, serve the salad in individual glass bowls or mason jars for a charming single-portion display that's perfect for picnics or casual dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store the salad without the balsamic glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within a day to preserve the freshness of the tomatoes and basil. The cheese might weep a bit but will still taste lovely if gently stirred before serving again.

Freezing

Because of the fresh tomatoes and basil, freezing this Caprese Salad Recipe is not recommended. The texture of the ingredients will be compromised and the flavors will not hold up well.

Reheating

Since this is a fresh, cold salad, reheating is unnecessary and will diminish the dish. Instead, enjoy it straight from the fridge for that crisp, refreshing experience every time.

FAQs

Can I use regular mozzarella instead of bocconcini?

Regular mozzarella works fine, but bocconcini or baby mozzarella balls give you that perfect bite-sized creamy texture and are easier to mix evenly throughout the salad.

What can I substitute for balsamic glaze?

If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can reduce balsamic vinegar on the stove until thickened or try a drizzle of aged balsamic vinegar straight from the bottle for a similar tangy sweetness.

Can I prepare the dressing in advance?

Absolutely! The dressing can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator; just give it a good shake before tossing with the salad ingredients to recombine.

Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?

This Caprese Salad Recipe is not vegan because of the mozzarella. You could try substituting in a vegan cheese alternative, but the traditional experience comes from the fresh mozzarella cheese.

How do I keep the basil fresh and green?

To preserve basil’s vibrant color and flavor, add most of it just before serving and keep it away from direct cold or heat exposure for long periods. Tearing or gently chopping releases oils that boost the aroma.

Final Thoughts

This Caprese Salad Recipe is such a joyful celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re whipping it up for a casual lunch, a family dinner, or to impress guests, it’s sure to become one of your all-time favorite salads. Give it a try and watch how quickly it disappears from the table — you might just find yourself making it again and again!

Caprese Salad Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need