Get ready to elevate your salad game with these 20 deliciously creative Caprese salad recipes! The classic combination of fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil is a summer staple for many, but why stop at just one variation? From sweet treats like grilled peach Caprese salads with balsamic glaze to savory options like caprese pasta salads with basil pesto, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing lunch or a impressive dinner party dish, these unique twists on the classic recipe are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Classic Caprese Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
Classic Caprese Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
Savor the sweet flavors of Italy with this iconic salad, featuring juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 large, ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange the tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top each tomato slice with a round of mozzarella cheese.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, then sprinkle with balsamic vinegar.
4. Garnish with chopped basil leaves.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just minutes.
Enjoy your delicious Caprese Salad!
Grilled Peach Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your summer salad game with this sweet and savory combination of grilled peaches, creamy mozzarella, and tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush peach slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill peaches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and 1 tbsp olive oil to create the glaze.
5. Assemble salad by layering grilled peach slices, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves on a platter or individual plates.
6. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top and serve immediately.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Avocado Caprese Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your caprese game by adding creamy avocado to the classic combination of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp salt
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced mozzarella cheese.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt to taste.
3. Arrange the salad on a serving platter or individual plates.
4. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves (if using).
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Caprese Pasta Salad with Basil Pesto
This refreshing pasta salad combines the classic flavors of Italy – juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil – with a boost of creamy basil pesto. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup basil pesto
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, sliced mozzarella, and chopped parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together basil pesto and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the tomato mixture and toss to combine.
5. Pour the basil pesto dressing over the pasta and toss until coated.
6. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Strawberry Caprese Salad with Honey Drizzle
Elevate your caprese game by adding sweet and tangy strawberries to the classic Italian salad! This refreshing twist is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 large beefsteak tomato, sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Arrange the strawberries, tomato slices, and mozzarella on a large plate or platter.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, followed by the balsamic vinegar.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey until smooth. Drizzle over the salad.
4. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Avocados with Burrata
Elevate your snack game with this creative twist on the classic Caprese salad, featuring creamy burrata cheese and fresh avocado.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 ball of burrata cheese
– 1 pint of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocado in half and remove the pit.
2. Slice each avocado half into thick wedges.
3. Cut the burrata cheese ball into small pieces, releasing its creamy center.
4. Alternate placing cherry tomato halves and burrata pieces between the avocado wedges.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Reduction
Elevate your appetizer game with these colorful Caprese skewers, featuring fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil. The addition of a rich balsamic reduction adds a depth of flavor that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Thread a cherry tomato, a mozzarella round, and a basil leaf onto each skewer.
3. Drizzle the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
5. Meanwhile, combine balsamic vinegar and 1 tbsp water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened.
6. Serve the skewers with the warm balsamic reduction drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Watermelon Caprese Salad with Mint
Experience the sweet and refreshing combination of watermelon, mozzarella, and mint in this unique caprese salad. Perfect for hot summer days or as a light and easy appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced watermelon (seedless)
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine diced watermelon and sliced mozzarella cheese.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Toss gently to combine.
3. Sprinkle chopped fresh mint leaves over the top.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Caprese Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
This colorful quinoa salad is a refreshing twist on the classic Caprese combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. The addition of cooked quinoa and a tangy lemon vinaigrette takes this dish to the next level.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 3 large tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced tomatoes, sliced mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil leaves.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
4. Pour the vinaigrette over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Bruschetta with Toasted Baguette
Classic Italian flavors come together in this simple yet impressive appetizer or snack. Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil are perfectly balanced on toasted baguette slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick rounds and toast until lightly browned.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the toasted baguette slices with the olive oil mixture.
5. Top each slice with a tomato half, a mozzarella slice, and a sprinkle of basil.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad with Garlic
Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad with Garlic: Elevate your classic caprese salad by roasting tomatoes with garlic and fresh basil for a depth of flavor that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 3 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss tomato slices with garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the tomatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, arrange mozzarella slices on a platter or individual plates.
5. Drizzle roasted tomatoes over the cheese, followed by a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
6. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Panzanella Salad with Crusty Bread
This Italian-inspired salad combines fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and sweet basil, all wrapped up with crispy bread and a drizzle of olive oil. Perfect for a light and refreshing summer meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1 crusty bread (such as Ciabatta or Focaccia), cut into 1-inch cubes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Toss the bread cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
3. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, sliced mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil leaves.
4. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Add the toasted bread cubes to the salad and toss again to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Flatbread with Arugula and Prosciutto
Elevate your flatbread game with this refreshing summer treat. Fresh mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, peppery arugula, and salty prosciutto come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-baked flatbread (or pizza crust)
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 large heirloom tomatoes, sliced
– 4 oz prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup arugula leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra-virgin olive oil for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange the mozzarella slices on the flatbread.
3. Top with tomato slices, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Drizzle with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Add the prosciutto slices on top of the tomatoes.
6. Sprinkle arugula leaves over the prosciutto.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with these savory and flavorful Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms. A twist on the classic Italian Caprese salad, this recipe combines fresh mozzarella, creamy burrata, and sweet cherry tomatoes with earthy portobello mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 ball of burrata cheese
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushroom caps and remove stems.
3. In a bowl, combine mozzarella slices, burrata cheese, and cherry tomatoes.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the Caprese mixture.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Salad Wraps with Basil Pesto Dressing
Transform the classic Caprese salad into a flavorful wrap filled with creamy basil pesto dressing, fresh mozzarella, and juicy tomatoes. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup basil pesto dressing (see below)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Basil Pesto Dressing:
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Place a tortilla in the skillet and cook for 30 seconds on each side, until slightly toasted.
3. Top with a few slices of mozzarella cheese, cherry tomatoes, and a dollop of basil pesto dressing.
4. Fold the wrap in half to enclose the filling.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caprese Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Tomato Soup
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy and comfort food, featuring fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and creamy basil on toasted bread, paired with a warm bowl of tomato soup.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of rustic bread
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Tomato soup (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Assemble sandwiches by placing a tomato slice, a mozzarella slice, and a sprinkle of basil on the unbuttered side of two bread slices.
4. Place the sandwiches on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Serve with a bowl of warm tomato soup.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Caprese Deviled Eggs with Fresh Basil
Elevate your deviled egg game with the sweet and savory flavors of Italy. This Caprese-inspired twist combines creamy yolks with fresh basil, mozzarella, and tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tablespoons diced fresh mozzarella
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tomatoes (such as cherry or grape)
– Paprika, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mash the yolks with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Stir in chopped basil, mozzarella, and tomatoes.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
5. Garnish with paprika and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (plus chilling time)
Caprese Stuffed Bell Peppers with Mozzarella
Elevate your snacking game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the creaminess of mozzarella cheese, all wrapped up in a colorful Caprese-inspired package.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Stuff each pepper with a few slices of mozzarella cheese, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Pizza with Balsamic Drizzle
Experience the flavors of Italy with this simple yet elegant Caprese Pizza recipe, featuring a classic combination of fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil. A drizzle of rich balsamic glaze adds a tangy depth to each bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. Arrange tomato slices on one half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Top with mozzarella cheese and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
5. Brush the crust with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
7. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Grain Bowl with Farro and Pesto
This vibrant grain bowl combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of a warm grain. Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil come together to create a delightful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook farro according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pesto and 1 tablespoon of warm farro (if using). Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked farro, sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
4. Drizzle the pesto-farro mixture over the top and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to take your Caprese salad game to the next level! From classic recipes to creative twists, this collection of 20 delicious Caprese salads offers something for everyone. Try adding grilled peaches and balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy twist, or mix things up with avocado and cherry tomatoes. For a savory spin, add caprese pasta salad with basil pesto or roasted tomato salad with garlic. And don’t forget to get creative with stuffed avocados, bell peppers, and even deviled eggs! There’s something for every palate in this mouth-watering roundup.
