Caprese salad is a timeless classic of Italian cuisine, the kind of dish that proves how light and simple can also be wonderfully delicious.
With just a handful of ingredients—ripe vine tomatoes, creamy buffalo mozzarella, fragrant basil, a sprinkle of oregano, and (in this version) a drizzle of balsamic glaze—it comes together in only 10–15 minutes. What really makes the difference is choosing the best-quality ingredients you can find.
It’s the very essence of summer on a plate, finished with a drizzle of good olive oil. Refreshing and satisfying, Caprese works beautifully as a starter for a dinner with friends or as a quick, light meal on its own. Its name comes from the island of Capri, where this colorful combination first became popular. With its red, white, and green, it mirrors the Italian flag, making it not only delicious but also a true symbol of Italy.
Perfect for a vegetarian diet, Caprese is great for trying out different variations. You can swap mozzarella for burrata for a creamier texture, or serve it on crusty bread for a Caprese-style bruschetta. And if you’re a fan of fresh, tomato-based dishes, you might also enjoy Panzanella, a rustic Tuscan salad.
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 4 medium (about 1 lb / 450 g) vine tomatoes
- 2 balls (about 9 oz / 250 g) buffalo mozzarella
- 2 small fresh basil sprigs
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) balsamic glaze (optional)
- 8-10 cherry tomatoes (optional)
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the tomatoes
Slice 4 medium vine tomatoes (about 1 lb / 450 g) into even rounds, about ¼ inch (0.5 cm) thick. - Slice the mozzarella
Drain and slice 2 balls of buffalo mozzarella (about 9 oz / 250 g) into rounds. If very watery, pat gently with a paper towel. - Arrange the salad
On a serving plate, form two parallel lines: alternate slices of tomato and mozzarella in each line. Place cherry tomatoes (optional, about 8-10) in between the two lines for a colourful touch. - Add the basil
Place 2 fresh basil sprigs on the side of the arranged tomatoes and mozzarella. - Season and drizzle
Sprinkle with salt to taste and 1 tsp dried oregano. Drizzle with 2 tbsp (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil and, if desired, 2 tbsp (30 ml) balsamic glaze. - Serve immediately
Bring to the table right away while the ingredients are fresh and vibrant.
Buon appetito!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 314 kcal | Protein: 26 g | Carbohydrates: 9 g | Fat: 18 g | Saturated Fat: 8 g | Fibre: 1 g | Sugar: 2 g | Sodium: 500 mg | Cholesterol: 75 mg
Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided in this blog is an estimate based on available online tools. It is not intended to serve as medical or dietary advice. We do not accept responsibility for any consequences arising from the use of this information.
Insalata Caprese (Caprese salad)
Ingredients
- 4 medium (about 1 lb / 450 g) vine tomatoes
- 2 balls (about 9 oz / 250 g) buffalo mozzarella
- 2 small fresh basil sprigs
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) balsamic glaze (optional)
- 8-10 cherry tomatoes (optional)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the tomatoes Slice 4 medium vine tomatoes (about 1 lb / 450 g) into even rounds, about ¼ inch (0.5 cm) thick.
- Slice the mozzarella Drain and slice 2 balls of buffalo mozzarella (about 9 oz / 250 g) into rounds. If very watery, pat gently with a paper towel.
- Arrange the salad On a serving plate, form two parallel lines: alternate slices of tomato and mozzarella in each line. Place cherry tomatoes (optional, about 8-10) in between the two lines for a colourful touch.
- Add the basilPlace 2 fresh basil sprigs on the side of the arranged tomatoes and mozzarella.
- Season and drizzle Sprinkle with salt to taste and 1 tsp dried oregano. Drizzle with 2 tbsp (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil and, if desired, 2 tbsp (30 ml) balsamic glaze.
- Serve immediately Bring to the table right away while the ingredients are fresh and vibrant.
