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Fresh Caprese salad with mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze.

Fresh Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze

Fresh mozzarella, ripe summer tomatoes, and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic glaze and the best olive oil you have. The most beautiful and effortless Italian salad in existence.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

  • 3 large ripe heirloom or Roma tomatoes sliced 1/4 inch thick
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella sliced 1/4 inch thick
  • 1 large bunch fresh basil leaves
  • 3-4 tablespoons high-quality extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
  • flaky sea salt such as Maldon
  • freshly cracked black pepper

Method
 

  1. Remove mozzarella from the refrigerator 30 minutes before serving. Room temperature mozzarella has dramatically better flavor and texture. Never refrigerate tomatoes.
  2. Slice tomatoes and mozzarella to the same 1/4 inch thickness for a beautiful uniform presentation.
  3. On a large platter alternate and slightly overlap tomato and mozzarella slices. Tuck fresh basil leaves between each pair of slices so they peek out attractively.
  4. Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil then drizzle the balsamic glaze in a thin zig-zag pattern across the top.
  5. Finish with a generous pinch of flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 12gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 380mgPotassium: 280mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4g

Notes

Use the absolute best quality olive oil and mozzarella you can find — this dish has nowhere to hide. Fresh buffalo mozzarella is spectacular if available. Burrata is an even more luxurious option. Never dress the salad ahead of time — the salt will draw out tomato liquid and the basil will wilt.

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