Caprese Salad

Classic Italian trio of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. Drizzled with olive oil, ready in minutes—no cooking required.

When the warm months roll in and tomatoes are at their peak, there’s one dish you absolutely need in your repertoire: Caprese Salad. It’s more than just a tomato-and-mozzarella combo — it’s a celebration of simplicity, freshness, and balance. And when you prepare it correctly, this dish sings.

Here’s how you can elevate this classic Italian salad from a side dish to a standout feature on your summer table.

Start With the Best Ingredients  

To craft an exceptional Caprese salad, your number one priority should be ingredient quality. There’s nowhere to hide in a recipe with so few components, so each item must shine.

1. Tomatoes — Your Star Player  

You need to use ripe, in-season tomatoes. That means juicy heirlooms, vibrant cherry tomatoes, or any variety that’s bursting with flavor. If you’re at a farmers’ market, let aroma and color guide your choice — the deeper the hue and the richer the scent, the better. Don’t be afraid to mix colors and shapes; the contrast adds both visual appeal and depth of flavor.

Tip: Slice them just before assembling to preserve their juices and avoid sogginess.

2. Fresh Mozzarella — Creamy and Delicate  

Next up is the mozzarella. You’ll want to use fresh mozzarella balls — either whole or pre-sliced — rather than the firmer, low-moisture versions meant for pizza. Look for mozzarella packed in brine or water, which keeps it soft and milky. Burrata is a more decadent option if you’re looking to impress.

Tip: Let the cheese come to room temperature before serving. Cold mozzarella can mute the flavors and alter the texture.

3. Basil — Fragrant and Fresh  

Choose whole basil leaves, and be generous with them. Their bright, slightly peppery flavor adds the perfect contrast to the creamy mozzarella and sweet tomatoes. Tear them gently by hand — slicing can bruise the leaves and release bitterness.

Assembling With Intention  

You may be tempted to just layer tomato, mozzarella, and basil in a circle — and that’s fine. But if you want to elevate the dish, consider these techniques:

• Stagger your slices for a rustic, flowing look.
• Alternate colors and sizes for a more dynamic presentation.
• Don’t overdress. You want to complement, not drown, the fresh ingredients.

Seasoning: Less Is More, but It Still Matters  

A good Caprese salad requires only a few seasonings:

Sea Salt & Freshly Cracked Pepper  

Use flaky sea salt to enhance the tomatoes’ natural sweetness. And don’t forget the pepper — a generous grind adds gentle heat that rounds out the flavor profile.

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil  

A drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil is non-negotiable. It binds the elements together with richness and depth. Choose a bold, grassy variety to cut through the creaminess of the cheese.

(Optional) Balsamic Glaze  

If you prefer a bit of tangy-sweet complexity, a light drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate the flavor. But be careful not to overdo it — the glaze can overpower if used excessively.

Bonus Add-Ons (If You Want to Get Creative)  

While the classic Caprese needs no embellishment, you might want to mix things up from time to time. Here are some professional twists:

• Add sliced avocado for a buttery texture.
• Roast cherry tomatoes for an umami burst.
• Sprinkle pine nuts or toasted breadcrumbs for crunch.
• Include peaches or nectarines to lean into a sweet-savory summer profile.
• Use pesto instead of fresh basil for a more herbal punch.

Serving Suggestions  

Serve your Caprese salad immediately after assembling. It’s best enjoyed at room temperature, where all the ingredients are at their flavor peak. This dish can act as:

• A vibrant starter for a summer dinner party.
• A light lunch when paired with crusty bread.
• A side dish alongside grilled meats or pasta.

Final Thoughts  

When done right, Caprese salad is a masterclass in how minimal ingredients can deliver maximum flavor. So next time you’re staring down a pile of ripe summer tomatoes, you know what to do. Trust your senses, respect the ingredients, and let their natural beauty shine.

Because with Caprese, less isn’t just more — it’s everything.