How to Make the Perfect Quick Caprese Salad
Italian · Easy · 10 min · 4 servings
This stunning Caprese salad takes just 10 minutes to assemble and showcases the beautiful simplicity of Italian cuisine. Fresh mozzarella ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil make this one of the quickest and most impressive salads you can serve.
Why this recipe works
This Quick Caprese Salad recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 10 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 280 calories with 14g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 5 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 3 large ripe tomatoes sliced
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella sliced
- 0.5 cup fresh basil leaves
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Slice and Arrange
Slice the tomatoes and fresh mozzarella into quarter-inch thick rounds and arrange them in alternating layers on a large serving platter.
Step 2: Add the Basil
Tuck fresh basil leaves between and around the tomato and mozzarella slices for color and fragrance.
Step 3: Dress and Serve
Drizzle the arranged salad generously with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze then season with flaky sea salt and cracked black pepper before serving.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- balsamic glaze → fresh lemon juice and a pinch of sugar for a lighter dressing
- fresh mozzarella → burrata cheese for an even creamier and more indulgent experience
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Using cold refrigerated mozzarella straight from the fridge which dulls its flavor and texture
- Using underripe tomatoes which lack the sweetness and juice that make this salad shine
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 280 calories, 14g protein, 7g carbs, 22g fat, 2g fiber.
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