Add some color and flavor to your summer with this fresh Caprese salad recipe.
How to Make Caprese Salad
You'll find a detailed ingredient list and step-by-step instructions in the recipe below, but let's go over the basics:
What Is Caprese Salad?
Caprese is an Italian salad that consists of sliced tomatoes, sliced mozzarella, fresh basil leaves, and balsamic reduction. The colorful dish is named after the island where it is said to have originated: Capri.
Caprese Salad Ingredients
These are the fresh, basic ingredients you’ll need to make this easy and impressive Caprese salad recipe:
- Balsamic vinegar and honey: The simple dressing is easy to make with balsamic reduction and honey.
- Tomatoes: You can use just about any tomato variety you like for Caprese salad, but large heirloom varieties work especially well.
- Mozzarella: You’ll need a package of mozzarella cheese, cut into ¼-inch slices.
- Salt and pepper: Simply season the tomatoes and mozzarella with salt and black pepper.
- Basil: Fresh basil lends fresh, earthy flavor and vibrant color.
- Olive oil: Since the olive oil will shine in this Caprese salad recipe, it’s best to use a high quality bottle.
How to Make Homemade Caprese Salad
Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect when you make this gorgeous Caprese salad at home:
- Make a balsamic reduction with the balsamic vinegar and honey.
- Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices on a serving plate with basil.
- Drizzle with balsamic reduction and honey.
What to Serve With Caprese Salad
This Caprese salad works beautifully as an appetizer to pair all kinds of Italian dishes. Explore these mouthwatering Italian recipe collections for delicious inspiration:
- 22 Best Italian Recipes
- 18 Quick and Easy Italian Dinners Ready in 45 Minutes or Less
- Our 10 Favorite Italian Recipes From Nonna's Cookbook
Allrecipes Community Tips and Praise
“I followed this recipe exactly as written and it was delicious,” according to Denise. “I have leftover balsamic reduction which I’m going to brush on grilled chicken.”
“I have made this recipe twice now and both times it was the showstopper at the table,” says Joyce Fahey. “It's so easy to make! The key is to reduce the balsamic until it's really thick. I think it's the longer reduction process that really makes the flavor shine here.”
“A Caprese Salad is the best taste of summer,” raves Linda Morency Giuffre. “And this balsamic reduction is the best way to enjoy it.”
Editorial contributions by Corey Williams
Ingredients
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1 cup balsamic vinegar
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¼ cup honey
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3 large tomatoes, cut into 1/2-inch slices
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1 (16 ounce) package fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/4-inch slices
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¼ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
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½ cup fresh basil leaves
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¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
Directions
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Gather all ingredients. Stir balsamic vinegar and honey together in a small saucepan and place over high heat.
![Ingredients to make Caprese salad with balsamic reduction]()
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
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Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer until mixture has reduced to 1/3 cup, about 10 minutes. Set aside to cool.
![A simmering pot of balsamic vinegar and honey]()
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
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Arrange alternating slices of tomato and mozzarella decoratively on a serving platter.
![A large round platter with alternating slices of sliced tomato and slices fresh mozzarella]()
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
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Sprinkle with salt and black pepper, tuck basil leaves around slices, and drizzle with olive oil and the balsamic reduction.
![A large platter of Caprese salad drizzled with balsamic reduction and olive oil, topped with fresh basil leaves]()
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| 580 | Calories |
| 39g | Fat |
| 35g | Carbs |
| 22g | Protein |
| Nutrition Facts | |
|---|---|
| Servings Per Recipe 4 | |
| Calories 580 | |
| % Daily Value * | |
| Total Fat 39g | 50% |
| Saturated Fat 18g | 91% |
| Cholesterol 89mg | 30% |
| Sodium 331mg | 14% |
| Total Carbohydrate 35g | 13% |
| Dietary Fiber 2g | 6% |
| Total Sugars 32g | |
| Protein 22g | 44% |
| Vitamin C 19mg | 21% |
| Calcium 692mg | 53% |
| Iron 2mg | 11% |
| Potassium 400mg | 9% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.
(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.
