This simple tomato mozzarella salad is one of our favorites because it’s quick and delicious. If you love the caprese flavors, we recommend trying some of our other favorites including Caprese Pizza and Caprese Kabobs.

aka CAPRESE Salad

This tomato mozzarella salad is one of my all-time favorite foods. It’s a quick and simple salad that can be whipped up in no time. Whether it’s a side dish or appetizer – it can’t be beat. Something about the combination of fresh basil, sliced tomatoes, thick mozzarella cheese, and a drizzle of that balsamic glaze is so amazingly delicious. Ever wonder why it’s called a “Caprese” salad? This salad comes from Italy – from the island of Capri! That’s where it gets its name. If you love salad, you’ll love this easy one!

Different ways to serve

The star of this insalata caprese is the fresh tomatoes and fresh mozzarella cheese. I was able to find mozzarella slices that are just about the same size as sliced beefsteak tomatoes. The alternating layers with the balsamic drizzle turned out as pretty as it was delicious.  ASSEMBLE. Cut tomatoes in thick slices. Layer tomatoes and mozzarella on your plate. SEASON. Drizzle with balsamic reduction. Sprinkle with pepper. Garnish with fresh basil. Variations. As with many recipes, this mozzarella and tomato salad can be customized to fit your preferences. 

Use mozzarella balls and sweet cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes. Toss together and top with the basil and glaze.  Add sliced red onions to the alternating layers. Sprinkle on fresh parsley or sea salt. Skip the balsamic dressing and drizzle with olive oil.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some of our best Italian dishes to serve this salad with:

Pasta Carbonara Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta Easy Spaghetti Recipe Chicken Parmigiana

So many options. Practically, any pasta or pizza dish would be great with this salad!

Best Balsamic Reductions

Our favorite balsamic reduction is the Modena Creamy Balsamic Glaze. But you can also make your own! Make your own by mixing balsamic vinegar and brown sugar (4 parts vinegar to 1 part sugar) over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for about 20 minutes until the mixture reduces by half.

For More Caprese Recipes, Try:

Caprese Pizza Caprese Stuffed Avocados Caprese Pesto Pasta Salad Quick Caprese Salad Fresh Mozzarella Pasta Salad Tomato Mozzarella Salad  Caprese Salad    - 50Tomato Mozzarella Salad  Caprese Salad    - 34Tomato Mozzarella Salad  Caprese Salad    - 85Tomato Mozzarella Salad  Caprese Salad    - 76Tomato Mozzarella Salad  Caprese Salad    - 53