Description
A fresh and vibrant Caprese Salad featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy bocconcini mozzarella, and aromatic basil, all brought together with a tangy homemade mustard-olive oil dressing and finished with a drizzle of sweet balsamic glaze. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a light lunch or an elegant appetizer, ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Salad
- 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
Dressing
- 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
Instructions
- Make the Dressing: Place garlic, Dijon mustard, extra virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, dried oregano, parsley, thyme, salt, and black pepper in a jar. Shake vigorously until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the halved cherry tomatoes, halved bocconcini, and most of the torn basil leaves. Drizzle the freshly made dressing over the salad.
- Toss the Salad: Gently toss the salad ingredients with the dressing to coat everything evenly without breaking the bocconcini or squashing the tomatoes.
- Arrange and Garnish: Transfer the dressed salad into a shallow serving bowl. Just before serving, drizzle balsamic glaze over the top and sprinkle with the remaining basil leaves for a fresh aromatic finish.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the salad fresh to retain the bright flavors and the creamy texture of the bocconcini.
Notes
- Use fresh bocconcini or baby mozzarella for the best texture and flavor.
- Balsamic glaze adds a sweet tangy finish; you can substitute with balsamic reduction or a good quality balsamic vinegar if unavailable.
- White wine vinegar can be substituted with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a slightly different flavor profile.
- This salad is best served fresh and not stored for extended periods to maintain its texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian