Classic Caprese Salad

Tomatoes: Juicy and ripe tomatoes add sweetness and a bit of tang to the salad.

Fresh mozzarella: Soft and creamy cheese that pairs perfectly with the tomatoes.

Fresh basil: Aromatic leaves that bring a fresh, herbal flavor.

Extra virgin olive oil: Adds a smooth, rich taste and helps bring all the flavors together.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a little bit of spice and depth to the salad.

One of the most important steps in making a Classic Caprese Salad is slicing the tomatoes and fresh mozzarella evenly. When the slices are about the same thickness, your salad looks prettier and each bite has a nice balance of flavors. Here’s a simple way to get those slices just right:

1. Use a sharp knife. A dull knife can squish the tomatoes and make the mozzarella tear instead of slice cleanly.
2. Hold the tomato or mozzarella steady on a cutting board with one hand.
3. Slice slowly and carefully, aiming for pieces about a quarter-inch thick. If you want, you can use a ruler or just eyeball it to keep the slices similar.
4. Try to keep your fingers tucked in and away from the blade to stay safe.

Slicing evenly helps the salad come together nicely because when you arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices on the plate, they fit together like puzzle pieces. This makes the salad look inviting and lets the fresh basil leaves slip in between easily. Plus, when you drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle salt and pepper, every bite tastes balanced and fresh.

When I first made this salad, I cut the tomatoes too thick and the mozzarella too thin, so the flavors didn’t mix well. Now, I take my time slicing, and it really makes a difference. Also, if you’re in a hurry, you can buy pre-sliced mozzarella to save time, but slicing the tomatoes yourself is worth it for that fresh taste.

• sliced tomatoes - Substitute with heirloom tomatoes: Heirloom tomatoes offer a variety of colors and flavors, adding a unique twist to the salad.

• sliced tomatoes - Substitute with roasted red peppers: Roasted red peppers provide a sweet and smoky flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• fresh mozzarella - Substitute with burrata cheese: Burrata cheese has a creamy interior that adds a rich texture to the salad.

• fresh mozzarella - Substitute with vegan mozzarella: Vegan mozzarella is a great alternative for those who are lactose intolerant or following a plant-based diet.

• fresh basil - Substitute with arugula: Arugula adds a peppery flavor that contrasts nicely with the other ingredients.

• fresh basil - Substitute with mint leaves: Mint leaves provide a refreshing and aromatic twist to the salad.

• extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a healthy alternative.

• extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with balsamic glaze: Balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste of the salad.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a more complex flavor and can enhance the taste of the ingredients.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a savory umami flavor that can bring a new dimension to the salad.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with crushed red pepper flakes: Crushed red pepper flakes add a spicy kick to the salad.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used for a more subtle heat.

• To maintain the freshness of your Classic Caprese Salad, store it in an airtight container. This will help keep the tomatoes and mozzarella from drying out and preserve the vibrant flavors of the basil.
• Place a paper towel at the bottom of the container before adding the salad. This will absorb any excess moisture released by the tomatoes and mozzarella, preventing them from becoming soggy.
• If you plan to store the salad for more than a few hours, consider keeping the basil leaves separate and adding them just before serving. This will keep the basil fresh and prevent it from wilting.
• Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor. Storing the salad with the olive oil already added can make the mozzarella and tomatoes too soft.
• For optimal taste, consume the Classic Caprese Salad within 24 hours of preparation. The tomatoes and mozzarella are best enjoyed fresh.
• Freezing the Classic Caprese Salad is not recommended. The texture of the tomatoes and mozzarella will be compromised, resulting in a less enjoyable eating experience. Instead, prepare only the amount you plan to consume within a day.
• If you have leftover mozzarella, you can freeze it separately. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before using, but note that the texture may change slightly.
• For leftover tomatoes, store them in the refrigerator in a separate container. Use them within a couple of days for the best flavor and texture.

• If you must reheat, consider using a low-temperature oven. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C), place the Caprese Salad on a baking sheet, and warm it for about 10 minutes. This method helps to gently heat the mozzarella without making it too rubbery.
• Alternatively, you can use a microwave. Place the salad on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture. Heat on low power for 30-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature.
• For a slightly different approach, you can transform the leftovers into a warm Caprese sandwich. Layer the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil between slices of bread, drizzle with olive oil, and toast in a pan or sandwich press until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.
• If you prefer not to reheat, consider repurposing the salad into a fresh dish. Chop the tomatoes and mozzarella, mix with the basil, and toss with some cooked pasta for a delightful Caprese pasta salad.

• Knife: A sharp knife is essential for slicing the tomatoes and mozzarella cleanly and evenly.

• Cutting board: Use a cutting board to provide a stable surface for slicing the tomatoes and mozzarella.

• Serving plate: Arrange the sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil leaves on a serving plate for a beautiful presentation.

• Tongs: Tongs can be helpful for placing the basil leaves between the slices without damaging them.

• Measuring spoons: Use measuring spoons to measure out the extra virgin olive oil accurately.

• Salt grinder: A salt grinder allows you to season the salad with freshly ground salt to taste.

• Pepper grinder: A pepper grinder is used to add freshly ground black pepper to the salad for optimal flavor.

• Small bowl: A small bowl can be used to hold the extra virgin olive oil before drizzling it over the salad.

Pre-slice ingredients: Buy pre-sliced tomatoes and mozzarella from the store to save time on preparation.

Use a platter: Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices directly on a serving platter to avoid extra dishes.

Pre-wash basil: Wash and dry the basil leaves in advance, storing them in the fridge until needed.

Pre-mix seasoning: Combine salt and pepper in a small bowl beforehand for quick seasoning.

Use a squeeze bottle: Fill a squeeze bottle with extra virgin olive oil for easy and even drizzling.