Description
A fresh and vibrant Caprese Salad featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, soft bocconcini mozzarella, and aromatic basil, dressed with a zesty homemade vinaigrette and finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This easy no-cook Italian classic is perfect for a light appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 220 g (7 oz) bocconcini (baby or cherry mozzarella), halved
- 500 g (1 lb) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped
Dressing
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (or other non spicy mustard)
- 2.5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp dried parsley
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Black pepper, to taste
Finishing
- Balsamic glaze or reduction, for drizzling
- Additional basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Make the Dressing: Place the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, extra virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, dried oregano, parsley, thyme, salt, and black pepper into a jar. Seal and shake vigorously to combine all the ingredients well. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Toss the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the halved cherry tomatoes, halved bocconcini cheese, and most of the torn basil leaves. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly without breaking the cheese.
- Assemble for Serving: Transfer the salad mixture into a shallow serving bowl to showcase the vibrant colors. Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic glaze generously over the salad and sprinkle the remaining basil leaves on top for garnish.
- Serve Immediately: Present the Caprese Salad fresh to keep the textures and flavors bright. This salad is best enjoyed right away for the optimal taste and freshness.
Notes
- Bocconcini mozzarella provides a creamy texture but fresh mozzarella balls can be substituted.
- Balsamic glaze adds sweetness and tang; you can make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar or buy pre-made.
- If you prefer a milder vinegar note, white wine vinegar can be substituted with apple cider vinegar.
- This salad is best served fresh as the tomatoes and cheese release moisture over time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Caprese Salad, Italian Salad, Bocconcini, Cherry Tomatoes, Basil, Balsamic Glaze, No-Cook Salad, Fresh Salad
