Caprese Salad Recipe
The Caprese Salad is a quintessential Italian dish celebrated for its simplicity and freshness. This vibrant salad, named after the island of Capri, is a perfect harmony of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil leaves, all brought together with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The beauty of this dish lies in its ability to balance flavors and textures, making each bite a delightful experience.
Ingredients
To create this delightful Caprese Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients: 500 grams or 1 pound of cherry or grape tomatoes, halved; 220 grams or 7 ounces of bocconcini, also known as baby or cherry mozzarella, halved (Note 1); and half a cup of basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped. For the finishing touch, balsamic glaze or reduction is used for drizzling (Note 2). When selecting your ingredients, opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes and fresh, fragrant basil to ensure the best flavor. The bocconcini should be creamy and soft, adding a luscious texture to the salad.
Caprese Salad Dressing
The dressing for the Caprese Salad is both simple and flavorful, consisting of a small minced garlic clove, 2.5 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, half a teaspoon of Dijon mustard (or any non-spicy mustard), one tablespoon of white wine vinegar (Note 3), and a quarter teaspoon each of dried oregano, parsley, and thyme (or rosemary). Additionally, half a teaspoon of salt and black pepper to taste round out the seasoning. Using high-quality extra virgin olive oil and fresh garlic will significantly enhance the overall flavor of the dressing, providing a rich and aromatic base that ties the salad together beautifully.
Instructions
To prepare the Caprese Salad, start by combining all the dressing ingredients in a jar and shaking vigorously until well blended. Adjust the seasoning to taste. In a large bowl, mix the halved tomatoes, bocconcini, and most of the basil leaves. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring all elements are evenly coated. Transfer the salad to a shallow serving dish. Just before serving, drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle the remaining basil leaves on top. This final touch adds a burst of flavor and visual appeal, making the salad as beautiful as it is delicious. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors at their best.
Recipe Tips
- Making the Perfect Caprese Salad: Use the freshest ingredients for the best results. Fresh tomatoes and basil are key to the salad’s flavor.
- Ingredient Substitutions: If you can’t find bocconcini, regular mozzarella cut into bite-sized pieces works well. Experiment with different types of tomatoes for variety.
- Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh as the tomatoes and basil can wilt.
What to Serve With This Recipe
The Caprese Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. For appetizers, consider serving it alongside bruschetta or garlic bread. As a main dish, it complements grilled meats, seafood, or pasta dishes perfectly. For beverages, a crisp white wine or light red wine enhances the flavors of the salad. Specific wine pairings like Pinot Grigio or Chianti are excellent choices that elevate the dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, but it’s best to add the dressing and basil just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.
- What are some variations of the Caprese Salad? You can add ingredients like avocado, peaches, or prosciutto for different flavors and textures.
- How do I make a balsamic reduction at home? Simply simmer balsamic vinegar over low heat until it thickens to a syrupy consistency. This adds a rich, tangy flavor to the salad.
The Caprese Salad is a must-try recipe for anyone who appreciates fresh, flavorful dishes. Its simplicity allows the quality of the ingredients to shine, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients to make the recipe your own. Share this delightful salad with friends and family, and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
- 500 g / 1 lb cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 220 g / 7oz bocconcini (baby or cherry mozzarella), halved (Note 1)
- 1/2 cup basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped
- Balsamic glaze or reduction, for drizzling (Note 2)
Caprese Salad Dressing:
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 2.5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (or other non-spicy mustard)
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar (Note 3)
- 1/4 tsp each dried oregano, parsley, thyme (or rosemary)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
Combine all dressing ingredients in a jar and shake vigorously until well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
In a large bowl, mix the halved tomatoes, bocconcini, and most of the basil leaves. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
Transfer the salad to a shallow serving dish. Just before serving, drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle the remaining basil leaves on top.
Serve immediately and enjoy this fresh and flavorful salad.
Caprese Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 500 g / 1 lb cherry or grape tomatoes halved
- 220 g / 7oz bocconcini baby or cherry mozzarella, halved (Note 1)
- 1/2 cup basil leaves torn or roughly chopped
- Balsamic glaze or reduction for drizzling (Note 2)
Caprese Salad Dressing:
- 1 small garlic clove minced
- 2.5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard or other non-spicy mustard
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar Note 3
- 1/4 tsp each dried oregano parsley, thyme (or rosemary)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine all dressing ingredients in a jar and shake vigorously until well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- In a large bowl, mix the halved tomatoes, bocconcini, and most of the basil leaves. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Transfer the salad to a shallow serving dish. Just before serving, drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle the remaining basil leaves on top.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this fresh and flavorful salad.
Notes
- Use 3/4 tsp mixed dried herbs or preferred herbs.
- Bocconcini: Fresh mozzarella, also known as cherry or baby mozzarella, similar in size to cherry tomatoes.
- Balsamic Glaze: Made by simmering balsamic vinegar and sugar until syrupy. Use sparingly for its strong, intense flavor. Store-bought glaze is fine and usually found near balsamic vinegar.
- Vinegar: Any clear vinegar, including white balsamic, can be used. Adjust the dressing with more oil or vinegar as needed.
- Use a 1:2 ratio of bocconcini to cherry tomatoes, but more bocconcini can be added if desired.
- Best when served fresh.
- For preparation ahead of time: chop tomatoes and bocconcini, make the dressing, and prepare basil leaves (do not tear to avoid browning). Assemble just before serving.