Caprese Appetizer Salad

Caprese Appetizer Salad is a fresh and elegant Italian-inspired dish that brings together juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. With just a few quality ingredients, this simple salad delivers bold flavors and beautiful presentation—perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a light starter.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Caprese salad is a celebration of freshness and simplicity. It requires no cooking, comes together in minutes, and looks stunning on any appetizer table. The balance of sweet tomatoes, rich mozzarella, peppery basil, and tangy balsamic glaze creates a flavor-packed bite that’s light yet satisfying. It’s also gluten-free, vegetarian, and easy to customize.

ingredients

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

  • Fresh tomatoes (such as cherry, grape, or heirloom slices)
  • Fresh mozzarella (balls or slices)
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Balsamic glaze or reduction
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

directions

  1. Wash and slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into uniform rounds, or halve cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls if using.
  2. On a platter, alternate layers of tomato slices, mozzarella, and basil leaves, slightly overlapping for visual appeal.
  3. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze.
  4. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  5. Serve immediately or chill slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 as an appetizer.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

  • Use colorful heirloom tomatoes for a more vibrant presentation.
  • Substitute burrata cheese for an extra creamy twist.
  • Add avocado slices for a modern, rich variation.
  • Skewer the ingredients on toothpicks or small skewers for bite-sized party snacks.
  • Top with a light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or pine nuts for added texture.

storage/reheating

Caprese salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the ingredients lose their texture over time.
If storing, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
Do not reheat. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

What type of tomatoes work best?

Ripe, juicy tomatoes like heirloom, Roma, or cherry tomatoes are ideal for flavor and texture.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients a few hours in advance, but wait to assemble and drizzle until just before serving.

Is there a difference between balsamic vinegar and balsamic glaze?

Yes, balsamic glaze is a reduced, thickened version of balsamic vinegar and is sweeter and more concentrated.

Can I use dried basil?

Fresh basil is strongly recommended for authentic flavor and texture.

What can I use instead of mozzarella?

Burrata or ricotta salata are good alternatives for variety in texture and flavor.

How do I prevent watery salad?

Use ripe but firm tomatoes and drain any excess liquid from mozzarella before assembling.

Can I serve this with bread?

Yes, Caprese salad pairs wonderfully with toasted baguette slices or crusty Italian bread.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free and vegetarian.

Can I add protein?

You can add grilled chicken, prosciutto, or white beans for a heartier appetizer.

Should I serve it cold or room temperature?

It’s best served slightly chilled or at room temperature to bring out the flavors.

Conclusion

Caprese Appetizer Salad is the perfect combination of simplicity and elegance. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a light, refreshing start to your meal, this classic dish delivers fresh flavors and beautiful presentation in just minutes.

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Caprese Appetizer Salad

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Caprese Appetizer Salad is a simple and elegant Italian dish made with fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze.

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-cook
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. On a serving platter, alternate slices of tomato and mozzarella, overlapping them slightly.
  2. Insert fresh basil leaves between the tomato and mozzarella slices.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
  4. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  5. Serve immediately or chill slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Use heirloom tomatoes for added color and flavor.
  • For a bite-sized version, use cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls on skewers.
  • Best served fresh to preserve texture and flavor.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

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