If you love a fresh, vibrant dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite, then you are going to adore this Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze Recipe. It’s a beautiful balance of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all elevated by the rich and tangy sweetness of balsamic glaze. Perfect as a light appetizer or a colorful side, this salad brings the flavors of Italy to your table with effortless elegance. Whenever I make it, I’m reminded how something so simple can taste absolutely extraordinary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze Recipe lies in its simplicity and freshness. Each ingredient plays a vital role in delivering the perfect harmony of textures and flavors, from juicy, ripe tomatoes to creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil. Just a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze tie everything together beautifully.
- 3 heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes: Choose ripe, firm tomatoes for the best sweet and tangy flavor and juicy texture.
- ½ teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes and draws out their natural sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon salt (divided): Enhances all the flavors and seasons the salad perfectly in two stages.
- 1 pound fresh mozzarella: Provides creamy texture and mild richness; pre-sliced works fine for ease.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle spicy kick that complements the other ingredients.
- Extra virgin olive oil: A drizzle brings silky richness and depth of flavor.
- Balsamic glaze: The star finishing touch with its sweet, tangy, and syrupy glaze enhancing every bite.
- ¼ cup roughly chopped fresh basil: Fresh, aromatic, and bright, basil adds a lovely herbal note.
- Additional whole basil sprigs (optional): For stunning garnish and extra freshness.
How to Make Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Sweeten and Season the Tomatoes
Start by slicing your tomatoes into quarter-inch slices and arranging them on a cutting board. Sprinkle with ½ teaspoon sugar and ¼ teaspoon salt. Let them sit for a few minutes so the sugar dissolves and the flavors intensify — this little patience step really makes the tomatoes pop.
Step 2: Layer the Salad
On a beautiful serving platter, arrange the tomato slices alternating with equally thin slices of fresh mozzarella. This alternating pattern is not only visually stunning but ensures you get bites laden with both creamy cheese and juicy tomato in every mouthful.
Step 3: Season and Drizzle
Sprinkle the remaining ¼ teaspoon salt over the arranged salad along with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Then, drizzle about a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil evenly across the top, followed by an equal amount of balsamic glaze. The glaze adds a gorgeous sheen and a luscious sweetness that perfectly balances the savory elements.
Step 4: Add Fresh Basil and Garnish
Scatter the roughly chopped basil over the salad to spread that unforgettable herbal freshness. If you want to elevate presentation, tuck in some whole basil sprigs around the edges of the platter for a vibrant, garden-fresh look.
How to Serve Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is the star garnish here, but a few extra twists of black pepper or a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt before serving can elevate the salad further. Bright edible flowers can add a playful pop of color and elegance for entertaining guests.
Side Dishes
This Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze Recipe pairs beautifully with rustic bread or a warm focaccia to soak up the glaze and oil. It also complements grilled chicken, seafood, or light pasta dishes wonderfully, weaving a fresh brightness into your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try assembling individual Caprese skewers with cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, and basil leaves drizzled with balsamic glaze. Or layer the salad in a clear glass trifle bowl for a stunning visual effect at parties. No matter how you serve it, this salad is always a showstopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, cover the salad tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Keep in mind that fresh mozzarella and tomatoes release some moisture when stored, so drain any excess liquid before serving again to preserve texture and flavor.
Freezing
This salad is best fresh, so freezing is not recommended. Freezing fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil will alter their texture and taste, which can take away from the salad’s delightful freshness.
Reheating
Caprese salad is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary. Simply allow refrigerated leftovers to come to room temperature for the best flavor before serving again.
FAQs
Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of heirloom tomatoes?
Absolutely! Cherry tomatoes are sweeter and bite-sized, which makes for a handy alternative. Just slice them in halves or thirds and arrange them with mozzarella for a slightly different but equally delicious take on the salad.
Where can I find balsamic glaze?
Balsamic glaze is widely available in supermarkets often near the vinegar or salad dressing aisles. You can also easily make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens into a syrupy consistency.
Is fresh mozzarella necessary for this recipe?
Yes, fresh mozzarella is key to achieving the creamy, milky contrast against the tomatoes and basil. Pre-sliced fresh mozzarella from the deli section works perfectly and saves time.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
You can prep the tomatoes, slice the cheese, and chop the basil a few hours ahead, but it’s best to assemble the salad right before serving to maintain the freshness and avoid sogginess.
What is the best way to slice the mozzarella and tomatoes?
Use a sharp knife to slice both tomatoes and mozzarella into uniform quarter-inch slices for even layering and a polished presentation. This consistency helps every bite deliver balanced flavor.
Final Thoughts
Making this Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze Recipe is like inviting a burst of sunshine and fresh garden flavors into your kitchen. It’s simple, stunning, and truly satisfying in every way. Whether you’re serving it up for a quick lunch or impressing guests at a summer gathering, give this recipe a try—you might just find yourself coming back to it again and again!
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Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple, fresh Caprese Salad featuring juicy heirloom tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all enhanced by a sweet balsamic glaze and extra virgin olive oil. This classic Italian appetizer comes together in just 15 minutes and serves six, perfect for a light, refreshing starter or side dish.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 3 heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes, cut into ¼-inch slices
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt, divided
- 1 pound fresh mozzarella, cut into ¼-inch (6-mm) slices (pre-sliced is fine)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Balsamic glaze, store-bought, for drizzling
- ¼ cup roughly chopped fresh basil, plus more whole sprigs to garnish
Instructions
- Sugar and Salt Tomatoes: Arrange the tomato slices on a cutting board. Sprinkle with ½ teaspoon sugar and ¼ teaspoon salt, then let sit for a few minutes until the sugar dissolves. This step enhances the natural sweetness and helps reduce excess moisture.
- Assemble the Salad: Arrange the tomato slices on a serving platter, alternating with the mozzarella slices for a beautiful layered effect.
- Season and Dress: Evenly sprinkle the remaining ¼ teaspoon salt and freshly ground black pepper over the arranged salad. Drizzle approximately 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and an equal amount of balsamic glaze over the top, adjusting amounts to taste.
- Add Fresh Basil and Garnish: Scatter the roughly chopped basil over the salad for bright herbal notes and garnish the platter with whole basil sprigs to enhance presentation and aroma.
Notes
- Use ripe, high-quality tomatoes and fresh mozzarella for the best flavor.
- If you cannot find balsamic glaze, reduce balsamic vinegar with a little sugar on low heat until syrupy.
- This salad is best served immediately but can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours if needed.
- Optional: Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or freshly cracked pepper for extra texture and flavor.
