Caprese Salad Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

There’s something almost magical about transforming a handful of simple ingredients into a dish that whispers sweet summer vibes with every bite. Let me walk you through my tried-and-true caprese salad recipe that’s as refreshing as it is delicious.

I love the vibrant simplicity of a Caprese Salad with cherry tomatoes. The sweet juiciness of the tomatoes paired with creamy mozzarella balls creates a delightful contrast, while fresh basil adds an aromatic touch.

Drizzling with extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze elevates each bite, making it both flavorful and nutritious.

Caprese Salad Cherry Tomatoes Recipe Ingredients

• Cherry Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants; provides vitamins A and C; sweet and juicy.
• Fresh Mozzarella Balls: Source of protein and calcium; creamy texture; mild flavor.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Offers vitamin K and antioxidants; aromatic; peppery and sweet notes.
• Extra-virgin Olive Oil: Contains healthy fats; anti-inflammatory properties; enhances flavor.
• Balsamic Glaze: Adds a sweet-tart balance; rich in polyphenols; boosts depth.

Caprese Salad Cherry Tomatoes Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (Ciliegine), drained
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

How to Make this Caprese Salad Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

1. Begin by washing the cherry tomatoes thoroughly. After washing, halve the tomatoes and place them in a large mixing bowl.

2. Drain the fresh mozzarella balls and add them to the bowl with the cherry tomatoes.

3. Carefully tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces and add them to the bowl with the other ingredients.

4. Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil over the mixture of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

5. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors are well-balanced.

6. Gently toss the ingredients together in the bowl to ensure the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil are evenly coated with the olive oil, salt, and pepper.

7. Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual plates for a more rustic presentation.

8. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad, distributing it evenly across the tomatoes and mozzarella.

9. Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

10. Serve immediately as a refreshing appetizer or side dish, and enjoy!

Caprese Salad Cherry Tomatoes Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Colander or strainer
2. Chef’s knife
3. Cutting board
4. Large mixing bowl
5. Measuring cups and spoons
6. Salad tongs or mixing spoon
7. Serving platter or individual plates
8. Pepper mill (optional)

FAQ

• Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes? Yes, you can substitute grape tomatoes if you prefer. They have a similar flavor and texture.
• Is there an alternative to fresh mozzarella balls? If you can’t find Ciliegine, you can use mozzarella pearls or cut a larger mozzarella ball into small pieces.
• How should I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The salad is best served fresh.
• Can I prepare the salad in advance? It’s best to prepare close to serving time for freshness, but you can halve the tomatoes and drain the mozzarella a few hours ahead.
• What can I use instead of balsamic glaze? You can make a reduction by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens or simply use a drizzle of balsamic vinegar if preferred.
• Can I add other ingredients? Absolutely! Avocado, olives, or a handful of arugula can add extra flavor and texture.
• How do I ensure the basil stays fresh? Add the basil just before serving to keep its vibrant color and fresh taste.

Caprese Salad Cherry Tomatoes Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Fresh mozzarella balls (Ciliegine): Substitute with bocconcini or diced fresh mozzarella.
• Fresh basil leaves: Substitute with fresh mint leaves or baby arugula for a different flavor profile.
• Extra-virgin olive oil: Substitute with avocado oil or a light, neutral oil such as grapeseed oil.
• Balsamic glaze: Substitute with a mixture of balsamic vinegar and a touch of honey or maple syrup.
• Salt: Use sea salt, kosher salt, or pink Himalayan salt.

Pro Tips

1. Tomato Preparation After halving the cherry tomatoes, lightly sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for a few minutes. This will enhance their natural sweetness and draw out excess moisture, preventing the salad from becoming watery.

2. Cheese Selection If you have the option, try using buffalo mozzarella for a creamier texture and richer flavor profile. Ensure mozzarella is at room temperature before mixing; this will allow the flavors to meld better.

3. Oil Quality Use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for drizzling. The flavor of the olive oil is prominent in this dish, so a good quality oil will make a noticeable difference.

4. Herb Infusion If you have some extra time, marinate the torn basil leaves in olive oil for a few minutes before combining them with other ingredients. This will infuse the oil with basil flavor and enhance the overall taste of the salad.

5. Balsamic Glaze Finishing For an added layer of flavor, consider making your own balsamic reduction if not using store-bought glaze. Simply simmer balsamic vinegar with a bit of honey until it thickens. This will provide a perfect sweet-tangy balance to the salad.