Caprese Salad with Balsamic Drizzle

Name: Caprese Salad with Balsamic Drizzle
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 ripe tomatoes, sliced; 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste; Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Balanced Meal Recipes

I absolutely love making Caprese Salad with Balsamic Drizzle, especially during the summer months when tomatoes are at their peak. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil creates a dish that's both vibrant and refreshing. Drizzling it with a sweet and tangy balsamic reduction elevates the flavors further, making each bite a celebration of freshness. Whether it's a side dish for a barbecue or a light lunch on a warm day, this salad never fails to impress!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-29T23:55:28.727Z

Making Caprese Salad with Balsamic Drizzle has become one of my go-to dishes because it’s so simple yet incredibly satisfying. I remember the first time I made it; I was amazed at how just a handful of fresh ingredients could taste so gourmet. The key is to use the best quality tomatoes and mozzarella you can find, as they really shine through in this dish.

The balsamic drizzle is another essential component. I like to reduce balsamic vinegar over low heat until it thickens, enhancing its sweetness and adding depth to the salad. This touch transforms the ordinary salad into something truly special that everyone enjoys!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Vibrant flavors that burst with every bite
Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
Perfect for summer gatherings or light lunches

Mastering the Balsamic Reduction

The key to a successful balsamic reduction is patience. As you simmer the balsamic vinegar over medium heat, keep an eye on it. You want it to reduce by half, which typically takes around 8 to 12 minutes. Look for a syrupy consistency; the liquid should coat the back of a spoon when it's ready. If it thickens too much, you can always add a teaspoon of water to bring it back to the desired consistency. This reduction enhances the salad's flavor and adds a beautiful gloss.

Using quality balsamic vinegar makes a noticeable difference in the final taste. Opt for a thicker, aged vinegars as they tend to have a richer flavor and syrupy texture. If you have a basic vinegar, you can enhance it by adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup during the reduction process for an added depth of sweetness.

Choosing the Right Tomatoes and Basil

The tomatoes are the star of the Caprese salad, so selecting the right variety is essential. Look for heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes; they usually have the most flavor and juiciness. Aim for tomatoes that feel heavy for their size and have a rich color without blemishes. If you're making this salad for a gathering, consider using various tomato colors to add visual appeal and complexity to your dish.

Basil adds a fragrant and fresh note to your salad. When choosing basil, go for vibrant, green leaves without any signs of browning or wilting. If you prefer a milder flavor, try using spicy or citrus basil varieties. To release more of the aromatic oils in the basil, tear the leaves just before serving instead of slicing them, which can brown the edges.

Ingredients for Caprese Salad

Ingredients

4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
1 cup fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

Prepare the Balsamic Drizzle

In a small saucepan, heat the balsamic vinegar over medium heat. Allow it to simmer gently until it reduces by half and thickens slightly, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Assemble the Salad

On a serving platter, alternate slices of tomatoes and mozzarella. Tuck fresh basil leaves in between the layers.

Add Finishing Touches

Drizzle the salad with the balsamic reduction and a bit of extra virgin olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, let the assembled salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Storage Tips

Caprese salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the balsamic drizzle separate from the salad to prevent the ingredients from becoming soggy. Enjoy the leftovers within a day or two for the best flavor and texture. If you'd like to meal prep, consider keeping the components separate and assembling them right before serving.

To rejuvenate the salad upon serving, consider adding a touch more extra virgin olive oil and a new drizzle of balsamic reduction. This deceives the taste buds into thinking the salad is just freshly made, even if it's been in the fridge.

Serving Suggestions

Caprese salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it a perfect side dish for barbecues or family gatherings. If you're looking for something light, serve it alongside a crusty loaf of bread or whole-grain crackers for a more substantial meal. This dish also works as an appetizer; simply cut the tomatoes and mozzarella into bite-sized pieces for easy serving.

For an elevated presentation, stack the tomato and mozzarella slices vertically, alternating them with basil leaves, and secure with a skewer. This makes for an eye-catching arrangement that’s perfect for entertaining. You can also drizzle additional balsamic reduction on each skewer for an extra flavor punch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, while mozzarella is traditional, you can substitute burrata or goat cheese for a different flavor.

→ Is it necessary to reduce the balsamic vinegar?

Reducing the balsamic vinegar creates a thicker consistency and enhances the sweetness, but you can use store-bought balsamic glaze if desired.

→ How long can I store the assembled salad?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to one day. The tomatoes may release moisture.

→ What else can I add to this salad?

Consider adding avocados, pine nuts, or an assortment of colored heirloom tomatoes for added flavor and visual appeal.