Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze is a classic Italian recipe that celebrates fresh ingredients and simple preparation. Made with ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of olive oil, it’s one of the most refreshing dishes you can add to your table. The homemade balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy layer that balances the creaminess of the cheese and the freshness of the vegetables.
This salad is ideal for summer gatherings, quick lunches, or as a starter before your main course. It’s not only colorful and appetizing but also packed with wholesome nutrients. Because it takes less than 20 minutes to prepare, it’s a go-to choice for anyone who wants something light yet full of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons why Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze is a dish that never goes out of style:
- Quick and easy: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have it ready in no time.
- Healthy and fresh: Tomatoes provide antioxidants, mozzarella offers protein and calcium, and basil gives a boost of vitamins—all dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Beautiful presentation: The bright red, green, and white colors make it a visually stunning addition to any meal.
- Versatile dish: Serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or light lunch. It pairs beautifully with pasta, grilled meat, or seafood.
- Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian: A recipe that suits many dietary preferences without the need for adjustments.
- Customizable: You can experiment with different tomato varieties, add avocado slices, or swap fresh mozzarella for burrata for a richer texture.
This combination of flavor, freshness, and simplicity is why Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze remains one of the most loved Italian dishes across kitchens worldwide.
Ingredients Needed
To prepare this Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze, you’ll need fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of flavors:
- Tomatoes (3 large, ripe, and firm): Choose red, juicy tomatoes with good texture. Heirloom or Roma tomatoes work well for their natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Fresh mozzarella (8 oz): Opt for fresh mozzarella logs or balls, as they slice neatly and have a creamy, mild taste that pairs beautifully with tomatoes.
- Fresh basil leaves (1/4 cup): Fragrant basil is key to this salad, giving it freshness and a subtle peppery note. Use whole leaves for presentation.
- Extra virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons): A high-quality olive oil enhances the flavor with its richness and smoothness.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings that elevate the taste of the salad without overpowering the natural flavors.
- Balsamic vinegar (1/2 cup): This will be reduced to create a thick glaze. A good-quality balsamic vinegar gives the glaze its perfect balance of tanginess and sweetness.
👉 Tip: Always use fresh and ripe ingredients. The freshness of the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil makes all the difference in this salad.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to prepare your Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze:
1. Make the balsamic glaze
- Pour 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan.
- Heat over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and let it cook down, stirring occasionally.
- Allow it to reduce by about half, which usually takes 8–10 minutes.
- The glaze is ready when it has a syrupy consistency and lightly coats the back of a spoon.
- Set it aside to cool.
2. Prepare the tomatoes and mozzarella
- Slice 3 large ripe tomatoes into even rounds, about 1/4-inch thick.
- Slice the 8 oz of fresh mozzarella into similar-sized rounds to match the tomatoes.
- Pat the mozzarella slices gently with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which keeps the salad fresh.
3. Arrange the salad
- On a large serving platter, alternate the slices of tomato and mozzarella in a circular or overlapping pattern.
- Tuck fresh basil leaves between the layers for a burst of color and flavor.
4. Season and dress
- Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over the salad.
- Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Finally, drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze over the top. Add as much or as little as you prefer, depending on how tangy and sweet you like it.
5. Serve fresh
- Serve the salad immediately as an appetizer, a refreshing side, or a light meal.
- Pair it with crusty bread, pasta, or grilled proteins for a complete dish.
Notes
- For best flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes and high-quality mozzarella.
- The balsamic glaze can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- This salad is best served fresh and is not ideal for storing after assembly.
- Variations: Try heirloom tomatoes, add avocado slices, or substitute mozzarella with burrata for a creamier texture.
Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze Recipe
Description
A fresh and flavorful Italian salad made with ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a tangy balsamic glaze. This simple recipe is quick to prepare and perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Prepare the balsamic glaze: Add balsamic vinegar to a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat and let it cook until reduced by half (about 8–10 minutes). The glaze should have a syrupy texture. Remove from heat and let it cool.
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Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella: Cut the tomatoes into 1/4-inch rounds. Slice the mozzarella into even rounds and pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
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Assemble the salad: Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices on a large platter in alternating layers. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the slices.
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Season and dress: Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and black pepper, and finish with the cooled balsamic glaze.
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Serve immediately: Enjoy fresh as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal.
