CLASSIC CAPRESE
- WineCheeseScallops
- Jul 17
- 5 min read
When summer tomatoes are at their peak, there’s nothing better than letting them shine in their purest form—and this Classic Caprese does exactly that. It’s the ultimate no-cook dish: vibrant, juicy heirloom tomatoes layered with creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and just the right touch of olive oil and garlic. A sprinkle of salt, pepper, and (if you like) a drizzle of balsamic vinegar brings it all together into one elegant, simple, flavor-packed bite.
Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a light lunch, this Caprese recipe is as timeless as it is delicious. It's fresh, colorful, and tastes just like summer.
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Highlighted Ingredients
Heirloom Tomatoes
Heirloom tomatoes are the star of the show here. Grown from heirloom seeds passed down through generations, these tomatoes offer exceptional flavor, vibrant color, and a softer texture than standard grocery store tomatoes. Their natural sweetness and complex taste elevate the dish, and the variation in colors adds visual beauty to your plate.
Fresh Mozzarella
Fresh mozzarella has a delicate, milky flavor and soft, moist texture that pairs perfectly with ripe tomatoes. It’s much creamier and lighter than shredded or block mozzarella. For this recipe, use the kind packed in water or brine—preferably buffalo mozzarella or fior di latte—to ensure the best melt-in-your-mouth experience.
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Recipe Origin
The Caprese salad hails from Italy’s Isle of Capri and has long been cherished for its simplicity and symbolism—the red, white, and green mirroring the Italian flag. Traditionally served as an antipasto (starter), this dish is all about celebrating high-quality ingredients without overcomplicating things.
Over time, versions have been adapted with pesto, burrata, or balsamic reductions, but the original still reigns supreme for many. In our version, we add minced garlic for a subtle savory punch and offer balsamic vinegar as an optional twist that adds tang and depth without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
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Tips, Serving Suggestions, and Storage Advice
Use the freshest tomatoes you can find—heirlooms in peak season are ideal.
Let your cheese and tomatoes come to room temperature before assembling for the best flavor.
Slice everything evenly so each bite includes a perfect balance of tomato, mozzarella, and basil.
Use chiffonade-cut basil to get beautiful green ribbons that won’t overpower the dish.
Drizzle the olive oil just before serving to preserve its fruity aroma and prevent sogginess.
Optional balsamic should be used sparingly—it adds depth but can easily overwhelm.
For extra flavor, use garlic-infused olive oil or lightly toast the garlic before adding it.
Add crusty bread or crostini on the side to turn it into a small meal.
Serve immediately after assembly for the freshest taste and best presentation.
Don’t refrigerate leftovers—this salad is best fresh. If you must store it, cover tightly and eat within 24 hours.
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What Makes This Recipe Unique
Highlights peak-season heirloom tomatoes.
Adds minced garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
Includes optional balsamic for those who love tangy contrast.
No cooking required—perfect for hot days.
Visually stunning with colorful tomato slices.
Elegant enough for dinner parties, simple enough for lunch.
Uses high-quality, whole ingredients.
Ready in minutes.
Great for gluten-free and vegetarian guests.
A timeless, universally loved flavor combination.
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Classic Caprese
Ingredients:
2 large or 3–4 medium heirloom tomatoes, sliced
2 (8-ounce) balls fresh mozzarella (or 1 16-ounce ball), sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
Fresh basil leaves, cut into ribbons (chiffonade)
Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Flaky sea salt or kosher salt, about ½ tsp
Freshly ground black pepper, about ½ tsp
Balsamic vinegar, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions:
Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices on a serving platter, alternating and overlapping them slightly for presentation.
Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, if using.
Sprinkle evenly with the minced garlic and fresh basil ribbons.
Finish with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Serve immediately at room temperature for best flavor.
MUST-HAVE TOOLS FOR THIS RECIPE
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FAQ Section
Can I use regular tomatoes instead of heirloom?
Yes, you can! Just make sure they’re ripe and flavorful—Roma or beefsteak varieties are good alternatives.
Is balsamic vinegar traditional in Caprese?
Not in the original Italian version, but it's a popular addition for extra tang and richness. Use sparingly.
Can I prep this ahead?
You can slice everything in advance, but wait to assemble and season until just before serving to keep it fresh.
What type of mozzarella is best?
Fresh mozzarella packed in water or brine is ideal. Buffalo mozzarella or burrata also work beautifully.
What’s chiffonade basil?
Chiffonade is a slicing technique where basil is rolled and cut into thin ribbons—perfect for elegant presentation.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh?
Fresh garlic is preferred, but in a pinch, a light sprinkle of garlic powder will still add flavor.
Should I refrigerate leftovers?
Caprese is best fresh, but if needed, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Expect texture changes.
What olive oil should I use?
Use a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil—it makes a big difference in flavor.
Can I add extras like avocado or prosciutto?
Absolutely! While not traditional, these additions can make it more substantial and unique.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes! Just be mindful of any bread you serve on the side if you're serving guests with gluten sensitivities.
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