By This Easy Caprese Salad balances hearty flavor with a straightforward process, so you get a reliable, delicious result every time.
Easy Caprese Salad captures the essence of salads while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Easy Caprese Salad becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
3 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (or balsamic reduction)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
PREPARATION STEPS
Assemble the Salad:
Arrange the tomato slices and mozzarella slices on a serving plate, alternating them in a circular pattern.
Tuck fresh basil leaves between the slices.
Season & Drizzle:
Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic glaze over the salad.
Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Serve Fresh:
Enjoy immediately as a light meal or serve as a side dish with grilled meats, pasta, or crusty bread.
Nutritional Information
Prep Time: 5 min | Total Time: 5 min
Calories: ~220 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
ORIGIN
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 0 min | Total: 15 min | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~220 kcal | Difficulty: Easy
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRINGS
Whole grain bread; Soup; Grilled protein
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
