Tomato Mozzarella Caprese with Balsamic Glaze

Fresh tomato, mozzarella and basil with olive oil and balsamic glaze.

Total 15 minMakes 4 servings
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Caprese salad layers ripe tomatoes with fresh mozzarella and basil, then finishes with olive oil and a small drizzle of balsamic glaze. The source heats a large amount of glaze together with oil; this version keeps the dressing separate so the cheese and tomatoes remain fresh. Slice the ingredients just before serving and season lightly, since mozzarella can be mild and glaze is concentrated. Wash and dry tomatoes and basil. Drain mozzarella well. Cut tomatoes and mozzarella into 5-mm slices. Alternate tomato and mozzarella slices on a serving platter, tucking basil leaves between them. Drizzle with olive oil and season with flaky salt and black pepper. Drizzle balsamic glaze lightly over the salad just before serving.

Recipe card

Tomato Mozzarella Caprese with Balsamic Glaze

Prep 15 minCook 0 minTotal 15 minYield 4 servings
Only numbered ingredient amounts change.

Equipment: Measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowls, a sharp knife, and the pan or baking dish specified in the method

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Prepare ingredients

    Wash and dry tomatoes and basil. Drain mozzarella well.

  2. Slice

    Cut tomatoes and mozzarella into 5-mm slices.

  3. Arrange salad

    Alternate tomato and mozzarella slices on a serving platter, tucking basil leaves between them.

  4. Season

    Drizzle with olive oil and season with flaky salt and black pepper.

  5. Add glaze

    Drizzle balsamic glaze lightly over the salad just before serving.

  6. Serve

    Serve immediately at cool room temperature.

How to tell when it is ready

Serve immediately at cool room temperature.

Tips

  • Wash and dry tomatoes and basil.
  • Cut tomatoes and mozzarella into 5-mm slices.
  • Alternate tomato and mozzarella slices on a serving platter, tucking basil leaves between them.
  • Drizzle with olive oil and season with flaky salt and black pepper.

Troubleshooting

  • If tomatoes are watery, blot slices gently.
  • If glaze is very thick, warm the bottle in lukewarm water before drizzling.

Substitutions

  • Use a plant-based mozzarella alternative.
  • Use balsamic vinegar reduced to a syrup if glaze is unavailable.

Variations

  • Use heirloom tomatoes.
  • Add a few olives.

Serving suggestions

  • Serve with crusty bread.
  • Pair with grilled vegetables.
  • Add to a summer lunch platter.
  • Offer alongside pasta.

Make ahead

Prepare components ahead and store safely. Best served freshly assembled. Refrigerate leftovers covered and use within 1 day.

Storage

Best served freshly assembled. Refrigerate leftovers covered and use within 1 day.

Food safety

Keep fresh mozzarella chilled until preparation and refrigerate leftovers promptly.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make Caprese ahead?

Slice ingredients shortly before serving; tomatoes release juice and basil darkens if the salad sits too long.

How should I store caprese salad with balsamic glaze?

Best served freshly assembled. Refrigerate leftovers covered and use within 1 day.

Serve with crusty bread. Best served freshly assembled. Refrigerate leftovers covered and use within 1 day.

About the author

Hez Arslan

Hez Arslan owns feastdelights.com and also writes practical recipes for everyday home cooking, from familiar Ukrainian dishes to meals inspired by kitchens around the world. His clear, step-by-step guidance helps home cooks approach each recipe with confidence.

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