Cherry Tomato Caprese Salad

Cherry Tomato Caprese Salad is a fresh, colorful twist on the classic Italian favorite. Made with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, this salad is bursting with summer flavor. It’s simple, elegant, and the perfect side for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is incredibly quick to make and uses only a handful of ingredients. It’s light yet satisfying, with the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors. Ideal for warm-weather meals, potlucks, or as a starter, Cherry Tomato Caprese Salad is a beautiful, no-fuss dish that impresses every time.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cherry tomatoes
• Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
• Fresh basil leaves
• Olive oil
• Balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar
• Salt
• Black pepper

directions

1. Slice the cherry tomatoes in halves and place them in a serving bowl.
2. Add the fresh mozzarella balls (leave whole or cut in half if large).
3. Gently tear the basil leaves and scatter them over the salad.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze or vinegar.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Toss lightly to combine and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
No cooking required.

Variations

• Use heirloom cherry tomatoes for more color and flavor.
• Add sliced avocado for creaminess.
• Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for crunch.
• Swap balsamic glaze with lemon juice for a lighter finish.
• Add a handful of arugula or spinach for a more filling salad.

storage/reheating

This salad is best served fresh. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Note that the tomatoes may release liquid and the basil may wilt. Do not reheat; serve chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes, just chop them into bite-sized pieces for easier serving and eating.

What type of mozzarella is best?

Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine) are ideal for their size and texture, but you can also use sliced mozzarella.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients a few hours in advance but assemble and dress the salad just before serving.

Is balsamic glaze necessary?

It adds a sweet, tangy finish, but you can use plain balsamic vinegar or skip it entirely.

How do I prevent the basil from wilting?

Add basil just before serving and avoid over-handling the leaves.

Is this salad vegetarian?

Yes, it’s completely vegetarian-friendly.

Can I add protein to make it a meal?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great additions.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What can I serve this salad with?

It pairs well with grilled meats, pasta dishes, or crusty bread.

How long will the salad last in the fridge?

Up to 1 day for best texture and flavor, though the basil and tomatoes are best fresh.

Conclusion

Cherry Tomato Caprese Salad is a timeless, elegant dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With fresh, high-quality ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a go-to salad for any occasion—from quick lunches to dinner parties. Serve it up and let the flavors of summer shine.

Print