Fresh Tomato & Mozzarella Caprese Salad Recipe: Ina Garten’s Summer Joy

Summer’s vibrant colors dance through this classic caprese salad recipe by Ina Garten that celebrates fresh, simple ingredients.

Ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil create a symphony of flavors on your plate.

Each ingredient speaks of Mediterranean sunshine and leisurely afternoons.

The combination is delightfully straightforward, allowing premium produce to shine.

Sea salt and excellent olive oil enhance every delectable bite.

You’ll adore how quickly this elegant dish comes together.

This salad promises to be the star of any gathering, delivering pure, bright Mediterranean magic to your table.

Keep Tomatoes Out of the Fridge – Storage 101

• Refrigerate Wisely: Store your Caprese salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep fresh mozzarella and tomatoes separate until right before serving to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
• Prevent Soggy Situation: Drain excess liquid from tomatoes before assembling to avoid wilting basil leaves and creating a watery base. Pat tomatoes gently with paper towels to remove moisture.
• Serve at Perfect Temperature: Remove salad from refrigerator 15-20 minutes before serving. Room temperature ingredients enhance the natural flavors of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil.
• Ingredient Freshness Matters: Select firm, ripe tomatoes and high-quality fresh mozzarella. Use within 24 hours of preparation for the most vibrant taste and crisp texture. Avoid storing dressed salad for extended periods.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time:

Total Time: 15 minutes

Calories: 250 kcal

Servings: 6

Ingredients in Ina Garten’s Classic Caprese

• Tomatoes: Vibrant, ripe tomatoes bring the heart of Caprese, choose firm ones with deep color and sweet aroma.
• Fresh Mozzarella: Creamy, soft cheese that melts beautifully and provides rich, delicate texture.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Aromatic herb that adds bright, peppery flavor and classic Italian essence.

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: High-quality oil that enhances flavor and provides silky smooth coating.
• Sea Salt: Enhances natural flavors and adds delicate mineral crunch.
• Fresh Cracked Black Pepper: Provides subtle heat and depth to complement the fresh ingredients.

• Balsamic Glaze: Adds tangy sweetness and elegant drizzle for extra gourmet touch.

Tools for Cutting Mozzarella & Tomatoes Cleanly

• Large Preserving Pan: Essential for cooking and reducing the chutney mixture.
• Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching the pan.
• Jam Funnel: Helps transfer hot chutney into jars cleanly and safely.
• Sharp Knife: Needed for chopping vegetables precisely.
• Sterilized Jars with Screw-Top Lids: Critical for storing and preserving the chutney.
• Measuring Cups: Ensure accurate ingredient proportions.
• Ladle: Convenient for transferring hot chutney into jars.

Ina’s Process for Stacking the Perfect Caprese

Summer Garden Tomato Delight

• Fresh Ingredients Assembly

Select ripe, colorful tomatoes and creamy mozzarella from your local market. Choose the most vibrant, juicy tomatoes with deep red hues and soft, delicate mozzarella that promises rich flavor.

• Slice and Arrange

Cut tomatoes and mozzarella into elegant, even slices. Layer them alternately on a beautiful serving platter, creating a visually stunning pattern that showcases each ingredient’s natural beauty.

• Herb Magic

Scatter fresh basil leaves generously across the tomato and mozzarella landscape. The fragrant herbs will infuse the dish with a delightful, garden-fresh aroma.

• Flavor Finishing

Drizzle high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the arrangement. Sprinkle sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the natural flavors and add a subtle, sophisticated touch.

• Serving Suggestion

Allow the salad to rest for a few minutes before serving, letting the flavors mingle and the olive oil gently coat each ingredient. Enjoy immediately as a refreshing summer appetizer or light meal.

Try a Drizzle of Balsamic or Herb Oil

• Swap traditional mozzarella with burrata, buffalo mozzarella, or fresh goat cheese for unique flavor profiles and creamy textures.
• Experiment with heirloom tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, or multicolored varieties to create visual appeal and enhance taste complexity.
• Mix in fresh basil leaves, add chopped oregano, or sprinkle dried Italian herbs to intensify the Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
• Drizzle high-quality extra virgin olive oil, balsamic glaze, or aged balsamic vinegar for added depth and gourmet restaurant-style finish.
• Transform the classic caprese into a complete meal by adding grilled chicken, prosciutto slices, or pan-seared shrimp for protein boost.

Plate for Simplicity or Dramatic Color Contrast

• Pair with Fresh Bread: Spread this delightful chutney on warm, crusty artisan bread for a burst of tangy flavor.
• Accompany Cheese Platters: Serve alongside a selection of sharp cheddar, creamy brie, or tangy goat cheese to enhance the cheese board experience.
• Enhance Grilled Meats: Dollop on top of grilled chicken, pork, or lamb as a zesty condiment that adds depth and complexity to your main dish.
• Gift in Decorative Jars: Package the chutney in beautiful glass jars with ribbon-tied labels for a homemade, heartwarming gift that showcases your culinary skills.

Elegant Caprese Salad Recipe

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4.7 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Classic Caprese Salad highlights fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves. Ina Garten’s simple Mediterranean-inspired dish combines quality ingredients for a refreshing summer appetizer you’ll savor with each delightful bite.

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Ingredients

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• 12 plum tomatoes, halved lengthwise, seeds (not cores) removed
• 16 oz (453 g) fresh salted mozzarella
• 12 fresh basil leaves, julienned
• ¼ cup (60 ml) good olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• 1 ½ tbsps (22 ml) balsamic vinegar
• 2 large garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp sugar
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Additional olive oil for drizzling

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Instructions

1. Prep Ingredients: Slice ripe tomatoes and fresh mozzarella into uniform thickness, creating elegant medallions that will showcase the salad’s visual appeal.
2. Arrange Salad Base: Layer alternating tomato and mozzarella slices in a circular or overlapping pattern on a pristine serving platter, creating a visually stunning presentation.
3. Season Generously: Sprinkle freshly ground sea salt and cracked black pepper across the layers, allowing the seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
4. Drizzle Dressing: Cascade extra virgin olive oil in a delicate stream over the tomato and mozzarella arrangement, ensuring even distribution of the rich, fruity essence.
5. Garnish Finale: Scatter vibrant fresh basil leaves across the salad, gently tearing larger leaves to release their aromatic oils and create a rustic, elegant finish.
6. Resting Stage: Allow the salad to rest at room temperature for approximately 10-15 minutes before serving, enabling the flavors to meld and ingredients to harmonize.

Notes

• Ingredient Quality Matters: Select ripe, fresh tomatoes at peak season for maximum flavor and sweetness in your Caprese salad.
• Temperature Technique: Serve tomatoes at room temperature to enhance their natural taste and ensure optimal texture.
• Cheese Selection Tip: Use high-quality fresh mozzarella, preferably buffalo mozzarella, for authentic Italian flavor and creamy texture.
• Herb Freshness Rule: Tear fresh basil leaves just before serving to maintain their vibrant color and release maximum aromatic oils.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 500 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 13 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg