Easy Caprese Salad Recipe (Ready In 10 Minutes)

For me, Caprese salad will always be tied to Sunday afternoons with my Aunt Maria. She had a small garden behind her porch, where cherry tomatoes clung to the vine like little rubies, and basil perfumed the summer air. Whenever life got too loud, her kitchen was a soft landing with fresh mozzarella, homegrown tomatoes, and a drizzle of golden olive oil.

Now, every time I make this salad, I remember her warmth and the way she taught me to keep things simple. Caprese salad is more than a recipe, it’s a reminder that the best things in life are often the easiest to prepare.

What Makes This Caprese Salad Recipe So Special

The beauty of this salad recipe lies in its simplicity and purity. With just a few high-quality ingredients, you get an elegant dish that feels like a love letter to summer.

It’s not just about throwing tomato and mozzarella together, it’s about choosing the ripest produce, balancing flavors, and letting the ingredients shine. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a solo lunch on the porch, Caprese is always a feel-good favorite.

And if you’re in the mood for a twist? We’ll talk about Caprese pasta salad in just a bit, it’s equally divine and just as easy.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Caprese Salad

Let’s talk about the heart of this recipe, the ingredients. For something so simple, freshness and quality make all the difference.

Here are the classic Caprese salad ingredients:

• Fresh mozzarella (sliced) – Creamy and mild, it’s the soft anchor of the dish. Use mozzarella di bufala or bocconcini for extra indulgence.
• Ripe tomatoes – Go for vine-ripened, heirloom, or Roma tomatoes. They should be juicy, sweet, and firm.
• Fresh basil leaves – Torn just before serving for that unmistakable aroma.
• Extra virgin olive oil – A rich, golden drizzle ties it all together.
• Salt & freshly cracked black pepper – To enhance flavor and balance acidity.
• (Optional) Balsamic glaze or vinegar – Adds depth and a tangy finish, especially for those who love a little zing.

How to Make Caprese Salad Step-by-Step

How to Make This Salad the Easy Way

1. Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into ¼-inch rounds.
2. Layer them on a platter, alternating slices of tomato and mozzarella.
3. Tuck whole basil leaves between the layers or scatter on top.
4. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Optional: Drizzle with balsamic glaze or a splash of vinegar just before serving.

That’s it, how to make Caprese salad in five minutes or less. No cooking, no fuss, just fresh beauty on a plate.

Helpful Tips & Tasty Variations

• Use room temperature ingredients: This enhances flavor and texture. Cold mozzarella can dull the taste.
• Add avocado: For a creamy twist and healthy fats.
• Make it a Caprese pasta salad: Toss chopped tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and basil with cooked pasta and a splash of balsamic dressing.
• Grill it: Try grilled tomato slices or even grilled halloumi instead of mozzarella.
• Upgrade your basil: Try purple basil or lemon basil for a fun variation.

What to Serve With Caprese Salad

Caprese is fresh, light, and pairs beautifully with:

• Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Hot Dogs
• A bowl of soup (like gazpacho or tomato bisque)
• With a Denver steak
• Toasted baguette or garlic bread
• Frozen Chicken Wings in Air Fryer
• Chilled rosé or sparkling lemonade

Or serve it as the starter to a rustic Italian-style dinner.

It also shines as a side to pasta dishes especially Caprese pasta salad if you’re doubling up the flavors.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Storage: Best eaten fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day.
• Avoid freezing: Tomatoes and mozzarella don’t freeze well textures will change.
• Make-ahead tip: You can slice and layer the salad up to 2 hours in advance. Drizzle the oil and balsamic just before serving to keep it vibrant.

Conclusion

This salad is a timeless dish that brings together the best of summer with hardly any effort. It’s proof that sometimes, the simplest things carry the most meaning especially when shared with people you love.

If this recipe warmed your heart or filled your plate today, I’d love to hear about it. Leave a comment, share it with a friend,  and make sure you Follow us on Facebook.

Here’s to simple joys, good ingredients, and food that feels like home

FAQs About Caprese Salad

Luna Chef

Caprese Salad

This easy and refreshing Caprese salad features juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil drizzled with olive oil. A timeless Italian favorite that’s perfect as a light lunch, appetizer, or elegant side dish.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: lunch, Salad

Cuisine: American

Calories: 235

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 ripe tomatoes heirloom or Roma, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella sliced or use mozzarella di bufala
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze optional, for drizzling

Equipment

• – Cutting board
• – Sharp knife
• – Serving plate or platter
• – Small spoon (for drizzling oil or glaze)

Method

 

1. Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into even 1/4-inch rounds.
2. On a serving platter, layer alternating slices of tomato and mozzarella.
3. Tuck basil leaves between the slices or scatter them on top.
4. Drizzle olive oil evenly over the salad.
5. Season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste.
6. (Optional) Drizzle balsamic glaze just before serving for extra flavor

Notes

• Use room temperature ingredients for the best flavor.
• Mozzarella di bufala gives a richer, creamier texture but regular fresh mozzarella works well.
• You can prep the salad 1–2 hours ahead, but don’t add olive oil or glaze until just before serving.
• For a heartier version, try serving it over arugula or turning it into a Caprese pasta salad by tossing with cooked pasta and additional dressing.