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
Scale
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.
