Easy Caprese Salad With Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

Now that summer is coming to an end, my garden is overflowing with ripe cherry tomatoes, and one recipe I always make to use them up is this Easy Caprese Salad. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for warm-weather dining, and it’s one of the best ways to enjoy the last of the tiny tomatoes.

But what I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a light, refreshing side dish in minutes. I

Not only do I make it as part of our weeknight dinners, I also love to bring it to the end of the summer parties and picnics. And when you drizzle it with a touch of balsamic glaze, the sweet and tangy flavors that blend beautifully with the creamy mozzarella and aromatic basil makes this dish a crowd favorite.

Why Easy Caprese Salad Is A Favorite Summer Dish

Caprese salad is a classic Italian dish that relies on the quality of its ingredients. Since there’s no cooking involved, it is the perfect summertime dish.

The juicy burst of cherry tomatoes, the smooth richness of mozzarella balls, and the bright flavor of fresh basil come together with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a perfect bite every time. And if you happen to have a little pesto on hand, be sure to drizzle a little of that on top as well!

Although the traditional recipe uses sliced heirloom tomatoes, using cherry tomatoes makes this Easy Caprese Salad even more convenient. They require minimal preparation, have an intense sweetness, and hold their shape well when tossed with dressing.

If you grow your own, you know how quickly they can pile up — this salad is one of the most delicious ways to put them to good use.

Choosing the Best Ingredients for Easy Caprese Salad

The secret to making this Easy Caprese Salad is selecting the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Because the recipe is so simple, each element needs to stand out.

Cherry Tomatoes

Any type of cherry or grape tomato works well here. You can use red for a classic look, or mix in golden, orange, and even dark purple varieties for a colorful presentation. Farmers markets in the summer often have beautiful heirloom cherry tomato mixes that add extra sweetness and visual appeal.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

A good extra virgin olive oil can make or break your caprese salad. Since the oil is part of the dressing, choose one with a rich, fruity flavor.

Look for labels that indicate the oil was grown, pressed, and bottled in the same country — this ensures authenticity. Always select “cold-pressed” olive oil for the best taste and nutritional value, and try to buy bottles with a harvest or sell-by date less than a year old. Smaller bottles are often better so the oil stays fresh.

Balsamic Vinegar

The tangy counterpart to olive oil, balsamic vinegar adds depth and sweetness to Easy Caprese Salad. True aged balsamic can be quite expensive, so for everyday use, look for bottles marked with the initials “IGP” — this guarantees a certain level of quality at a more reasonable price.

Salt and Pepper

Coarse salt, such as Pink Himalayan or sea salt, enhances the tomatoes’ natural sweetness and adds texture. Freshly cracked black pepper brings a subtle spice that balances the richness of the mozzarella.

Dried Oregano – The Extra Flavor Boost

While not traditional, a pinch of dried oregano adds a Mediterranean flavor that complements the basil without overpowering it. It’s a small touch that makes this Easy Caprese Salad stand out.

Fresh Basil

There’s no substitute for fresh basil in a Caprese salad. The aromatic leaves bring a fragrant, slightly sweet flavor that ties the entire dish together. You can buy fresh basil at grocery stores, farmers markets, or grow your own for the freshest taste.

Fresh Mozzarella Balls

Often sold as “bocconcini” or “ciliegine” in brine, these small mozzarella balls have a soft, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with tomatoes. If you can find mozzarella made from buffalo milk, even better — it’s richer and slightly tangier.

Balsamic Reduction Glaze

This thick, syrupy drizzle takes Easy Caprese Salad to another level. You can buy a bottle ready-made or quickly prepare it at home using balsamic vinegar and a touch of honey (recipe below).

Easy Caprese Salad With Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

1. Prepare the Tomatoes

Wash your cherry tomatoes and remove any stems. Just like when making BLT Potato Salad, slice them in half to expose the juicy flesh.

If the tomatoes are on the larger side, quarter them so they’re easier to eat. Cutting them allows the dressing to soak into the fruit, intensifying the flavor.

2. Drain and Add the Mozzarella

Drain the mozzarella balls from their liquid and pat them gently with a paper towel. This prevents excess moisture from watering down the dressing. Add them to the bowl with the tomatoes.

3. Chop the Fresh Basil

Instead of long julienned strips, cut the basil leaves into smaller pieces. This makes them easier to eat and ensures they’re evenly distributed throughout the caprese salad.

4. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, coarse salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Whisk until the mixture is well combined and slightly emulsified.

5. Toss the Salad

Pour the dressing over the tomato, mozzarella, and basil mixture. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix — you want the tomatoes to stay intact.

6. Chill for Maximum Flavor

Place the salad in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and makes the salad even more refreshing.

7. Finish with Balsamic Glaze

Right before serving, drizzle the salad with balsamic reduction glaze. The sweet, concentrated vinegar adds a final burst of flavor and makes the salad look as good as it tastes.

How to Make Homemade Balsamic Reduction Glaze

If you don’t have glaze on hand, making your own is easy. Add ½ cup balsamic vinegar and 3 tablespoons honey to a small saucepan.

Heat over medium until it begins to bubble, then lower the heat and simmer until reduced by half. It should coat the back of a spoon when ready. Allow it to cool before drizzling over your Easy Caprese Salad.

Tips for the Best Easy Caprese Salad

• Serve Fresh – This salad is best eaten the day it’s made. While it can be refrigerated for a short time, the basil will wilt and the tomatoes will release more juice if stored too long.
• Layer for Presentation – For special occasions, arrange tomato halves, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves in layers on a platter. Drizzle with dressing and glaze right before serving.
• Experiment with Flavors – Add sliced avocado for creaminess, or sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for a bit of crunch.
• Pair It with Bread – Serve with crusty bread or slices of toasted baguette to soak up the extra dressing.

Serving Ideas for Easy Caprese Salad With Cherry Tomatoes

This salad’s versatility makes it a perfect addition to nearly any meal. Here are a few ideas for serving:

• As a Side Dish – Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or steak for a balanced summer dinner.
• At a Picnic or Barbecue – Transport it in a sealed container, keeping the glaze separate until serving time.
• As an Appetizer – Serve small portions in cups or jars for a portable starter.
• With Pasta – Toss leftover Easy Caprese Salad with cooked pasta for a quick and flavorful cold pasta dish.

Why This Easy Caprese Salad With Cherry Tomatoes Stands Out

While there are many versions of Caprese salad, the combination of sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, aromatic basil, and a hint of oregano gives this recipe a unique twist. The homemade balsamic glaze adds a gourmet touch without requiring extra effort, making it a dish that’s both easy and impressive.

Enjoy! Mary

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