Classic Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze

Name: Classic Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 220 g bocconcini / baby or cherry mozzarella; 500 g cherry or grape tomatoes; 0.5 cup basil leaves; 2.5 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 1 tbsp white wine vinegar; 1 tbsp Balsamic glaze / reduction; 1 piece small garlic clove; 0.5 tsp Dijon mustard; 0.25 tsp each dried oregano; 0.5 tsp salt; 1 pinch black pepper

A vibrant and refreshing Italian classic featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, and fresh basil. Tossed in a zesty herb vinaigrette and finished with a sweet balsamic reduction, it's the ultimate 15-minute summer side dish.

Servings6 Portions

Prep Time15 Mins

Cook Time0 Mins

Difficulty

Easy

Ingredients

bocconcini / baby or cherry mozzarella
220 g
cherry or grape tomatoes
500 g
basil leaves
0.5 cup
extra-virgin olive oil
2.5 tbsp
white wine vinegar
1 tbsp
Balsamic glaze / reduction
1 tbsp
small garlic clove
1 piece
Dijon mustard
0.5 tsp
each dried oregano
0.3 tsp
salt
0.5 tsp
black pepper
1 pinch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the herb vinaigrette: In a small jar or airtight container, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Shake vigorously until the dressing is well-emulsified, then taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Assemble the salad base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, bocconcini (mozzarella pearls), and about two-thirds of the fresh basil leaves.

Dress the salad: Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the tomato and cheese mixture. Toss gently with a large spoon to ensure even coating without bruising the fresh basil.

Garnish and serve: Transfer the mixture to a shallow serving bowl. Just before serving, drizzle generously with the balsamic glaze and scatter the remaining fresh basil leaves over the top. Serve immediately for peak freshness.

Chef's Tips

For the best flavor, use room-temperature tomatoes rather than cold ones. If you cannot find bocconcini, you can use a large ball of fresh buffalo mozzarella torn into bite-sized chunks. To prevent the salad from becoming watery, wait to add the balsamic glaze until the very moment of serving.