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Easy Caprese Salad Recipe with Balsamic Glaze

Easy Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze

A classic Italian-inspired salad of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, olive oil, and balsamic glaze. This bright, no-cook dish is ready in 10 to 15 minutes and serves 4.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 tomatoes Medium ripe tomatoes, sliced about 1/4 inch thick
  • 1 pound Fresh mozzarella, preferably ciliegine, bocconcini, or a large ball, sliced
  • 1/2 cup Fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tablespoons Extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup Prepared balsamic glaze, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt, plus more as needed
  • 1/4 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
Optional Homemade Balsamic Glaze
  • 1 cup Balsamic vinegar
  • 1-2 tablespoons Brown sugar or honey

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Wash and thoroughly dry the tomatoes, then slice them about 1/4 inch thick. Slice the fresh mozzarella into pieces similar in size to the tomatoes, and pat it dry if it has been packed in water.
  2. Arrange the tomato and mozzarella pieces on a platter, alternating them with fresh basil leaves. If using small mozzarella balls, layer or scatter them with halved tomatoes instead.
  3. Season the arranged salad with the kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle evenly with extra-virgin olive oil.
  4. Finish with prepared balsamic glaze immediately before serving. If making homemade glaze, simmer 1 cup balsamic vinegar over medium-low heat for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until reduced by roughly half and thick enough to coat a spoon; stir in optional brown sugar or honey while reducing, then cool before drizzling.

Notes

For the best flavor, use ripe tomatoes and serve the salad at room temperature. Good-quality mozzarella and fresh basil are especially important because the ingredient list is short. Pat the produce and cheese dry, and add balsamic glaze just before serving to help prevent excess liquid.