Fresh Caprese Salad Recipe with Creamy Mozzarella and Basil
A bright and fresh Caprese salad featuring creamy mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, perfect for a quick and easy summer dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes (preferably heirloom or vine-ripened)
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (small-curd or burrata style)
- A generous handful of fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional)
- Pinch or two of flaky sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and slice the tomatoes into approximately 1/4-inch (6 mm) thick rounds. Arrange evenly on a serving platter.
- Drain the fresh mozzarella balls and slice into rounds about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick. Place alternating with tomato slices on the platter.
- Tear or gently fold fresh basil leaves and scatter over the tomato and mozzarella layers.
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil evenly over the salad. If using, drizzle about 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Let the salad sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
Use small-curd or burrata style mozzarella for best creaminess. Drain mozzarella well to avoid excess moisture. Serve at room temperature for best flavor. Use a serrated knife to slice tomatoes neatly. Keep salad out of direct sunlight to prevent basil wilting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the salad
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 12
Keywords: Caprese salad, fresh mozzarella, basil, summer salad, easy salad, Italian salad, fresh tomatoes, healthy salad