Dessert

Easy Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze and Fresh Basil Recipe

Name: Easy Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze and Fresh Basil Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 220 g (7 oz) bocconcini / baby or cherry mozzarella, halved; 500 g (1 lb) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped; Balsamic glaze or reduction, for drizzling; 1 small garlic clove, minced; 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (or other non-spicy mustard); 2.5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tbsp white wine vinegar; 1/4 tsp dried oregano; 1/4 tsp dried parsley; 1/4 tsp dried thyme (or rosemary); 1/2 tsp salt; Black pepper, to taste

BySophie Carsel April 24, 2026April 24, 2026

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Introduction

Caprese Salad is a fresh and vibrant Italian classic featuring juicy tomatoes, creamy bocconcini, and fragrant basil. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for a light lunch or a delightful appetizer that celebrates the best of summer produce.

A close-up image of a fresh salad served in a white bowl on a white marbled surface, showing bright red, halved cherry tomatoes mixed evenly with small, round white mozzarella balls. Scattered throughout are fresh green basil leaves, adding bursts of color with their smooth texture. A dark, glossy balsamic glaze is drizzled over the tomatoes and mozzarella, enhancing the layers with a shiny, sticky appearance. A silver spoon holds a portion of the salad, lifting it slightly, with the mixture visibly layered and vibrant. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

220 g (7 oz) bocconcini (baby or cherry mozzarella), halved
500 g (1 lb) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped
Balsamic glaze or reduction, for drizzling
1 small garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (or other non-spicy mustard)
2.5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp white wine vinegar
1/4 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp dried parsley
1/4 tsp dried thyme (or rosemary)
1/2 tsp salt
Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Place the garlic, Dijon mustard, olive oil, white wine vinegar, dried oregano, parsley, thyme, salt, and black pepper into a jar. Shake very well to combine, then adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine the halved tomatoes, bocconcini, and most of the basil leaves. Drizzle the dressing over and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
Step 3: Transfer the salad to a shallow serving bowl. Just before serving, drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle the remaining basil leaves on top.
Step 4: Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and sweetness.
Substitute bocconcini with fresh mozzarella slices if preferred.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red chili flakes to the dressing.
If you don’t have balsamic glaze, reduce balsamic vinegar over low heat until syrupy.

Storage

Store the salad without balsamic glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Add the glaze and basil just before serving to keep the salad fresh. Reheating is not recommended; serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

A close-up image shows a white plate filled with a mix of halved red cherry tomatoes and whole small white mozzarella balls, scattered with fresh green basil leaves. The ingredients are drizzled with a dark, glossy balsamic glaze and sprinkled with dried herbs. In the corner, a silver spoon holds a small serving of the salad, resting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Caprese salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and dressing in advance, but toss the salad and add the balsamic glaze just before serving to maintain freshness and flavor.