Description
Fresh and easy Caprese Salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. A quick Italian inspired lunch or summer side ready in 25 minutes.
Ingredients
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano or dried thyme
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
Balsamic glaze, for serving, optional
Instructions
1. Combine the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil in a large bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and oregano or thyme.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until evenly coated.
4. Chill for about 15 minutes or until ready to serve.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving if desired.
Notes
Best enjoyed immediately after preparing.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
For a heartier meal, serve over arugula or mixed greens with grilled chicken or steak.
Mini mozzarella balls work best, but a large fresh mozzarella ball can be cut into bite sized pieces.
Dried thyme can be used instead of oregano.
Homemade or store bought balsamic glaze is optional.
Optional additions include sliced avocado, fresh pesto, or cooked pasta.
Traditional Caprese salad uses sliced tomatoes, sliced mozzarella, and whole basil leaves.
If using peak season tomatoes, omit the balsamic vinegar and dress with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Fresh mozzarella or burrata works best. Avoid low moisture mozzarella.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: Italian Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 102
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 216 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 6 mg