What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Caprese Salad recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making it a go-to dish for any occasion.
- Fresh Ingredients: Uses ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil for a burst of freshness.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes, ideal for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile: Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or light meal, adaptable to any menu.
Recipe
Caprese Salad is a classic Italian dish that celebrates the simplicity of fresh, high-quality ingredients, making it a favorite during the summer months.
It’s a perfect appetizer or light meal that’s both invigorating and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices on a serving platter, alternating them for a visually appealing presentation.
- Tuck fresh basil leaves between the slices.
- Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the salad.
- Optionally, add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes:
For the best results, use the freshest ingredients available.
Heirloom tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella are excellent choices.
The salad can be customized with arugula or avocado for added texture.
Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 200 per serving
Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
Caprese Salad is a simple yet nutritious dish, rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Vitamin C | 20 mg |
| Calcium | 150 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love serving caprese salad with crusty bread because it’s perfect for soaking up the delicious balsamic glaze.
Adding some grilled chicken or shrimp turns it into a satisfying meal without losing its fresh vibe.
Pairing it with these simple options makes the dish feel complete, and you’ll want seconds for sure.
Bread Pairings
A few slices of crusty bread can take your Caprese salad from a light side dish to a satisfying meal. I love pairing it with sourdough—its tangy flavor complements the fresh tomatoes and creamy mozzarella perfectly.
If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll toast it lightly for a bit of crunch. Garlic bread is another favorite of mine; the savory, buttery notes add a rich contrast to the salad’s brightness.
Sometimes, I’ll even rub a clove of garlic on the bread for extra flavor. Either way, the bread soaks up the balsamic glaze, making every bite even more delicious.
Protein Additions
Looking to make your Caprese salad a bit heartier? I love adding protein to turn it into a full meal.
Grilled chicken breast is a classic choice—it’s lean, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with the fresh ingredients. Grilled shrimp is another favorite of mine; it’s light yet satisfying, especially in summer.
For a vegetarian option, I’ll toss in tofu cubes, which soak up the balsamic glaze beautifully. If I’m feeling creative, I’ll add quinoa bites for a nutty, crunchy texture.
These additions make the salad more filling, and trust me, they’re all delicious!
