Caprese Salad with Heart Tomatoes

Name: Caprese Salad with Heart Tomatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 ripe heart tomatoes, sliced; 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Recipes

I absolutely love making Caprese Salad with Heart Tomatoes, especially during the summer when the tomatoes are at their peak ripeness. Each bite is a celebration of fresh ingredients, and the vibrant colors on the plate are just so inviting. Using heart tomatoes adds a unique twist to this classic dish, offering a burst of sweetness and juiciness that elevates the entire experience. With just a few simple elements like fresh basil and creamy mozzarella, this salad becomes not only a side dish but also a star on your table.

Created by

Wendy Ashbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:29:34.970Z

As someone who adores fresh flavors, this Caprese Salad has always held a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I used heart tomatoes; their plumpness and vibrant color transformed the dish into something extraordinary. I found that allowing the tomatoes to marinate in olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a few minutes creates a beautiful harmony of flavors that just cannot be missed.

Over the years, I've experimented with various cheeses and toppings, but I always circle back to the simplicity of fresh mozzarella and basil. For an extra touch, I often drizzle some balsamic reduction on top right before serving, enhancing the flavor even more. It’s a dish that’s fast, beautiful, and incredibly tasty!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant and colorful presentation that impresses guests
The combination of sweet and tangy flavors is refreshing
Can be made in just 15 minutes, perfect for quick meals

      

Choosing the Best Ingredients

The quality of ingredients is crucial in a Caprese salad. I recommend selecting heart tomatoes that are ripe but firm—they should yield slightly to gentle pressure. Look for vibrant colors, ranging from deep red to orange, indicating sweetness. Pair these with fresh buffalo mozzarella for a creamier texture; its higher fat content enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming the tomatoes' natural sweetness. Additionally, pick basil leaves that are bright green and free from blemishes; these will impart a fragrant aroma and elevate the dish's visual appeal.

When it comes to olive oil, opt for a high-quality extra virgin variety. This not only adds depth but also enriches the salad with healthy fats. For the balsamic vinegar, choose one that is aged to develop a thicker consistency and a balanced sweetness. If you have a less sweet vinegar, you might consider drizzling a small amount of honey into the dressing to mimic that desired flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Caprese salad is versatile and can be served in various ways. For a more substantial meal, consider layering it on a slice of crusty bread or toasted ciabatta, transforming it into a delightful bruschetta. This not only adds a crunchy texture but also makes it a great appetizer for entertaining guests. Additionally, pairing the salad with grilled meats like chicken or fish complements the fresh flavors beautifully, adding a savory balance to the meal.

I also love experimenting with other ingredients. You can add slices of avocado for creaminess or even some sliced prosciutto for a salty contrast to the juicy tomatoes. If you're feeling adventurous, try mixing in some cherry tomatoes for diverse shapes and colors, which can enhance the dish's visual appeal while maintaining the classic Caprese concept.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful Caprese Salad!

Ingredients

4 ripe heart tomatoes, sliced
8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
1 cup fresh basil leaves
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

With these ingredients, your Caprese Salad will be bursting with flavor!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your salad.

Layer the Ingredients

On a serving platter, alternate layers of sliced heart tomatoes and mozzarella. Tuck in fresh basil leaves between the layers for added flavor.

Dress the Salad

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Drizzle this dressing over the arranged salad.

Season and Serve

Finish with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness!

Enjoy your delicious Caprese Salad with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding some sliced avocado or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.

Storage Tips

Caprese salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. When ready to enjoy, simply drizzle the dressing over the salad again for revitalized flavor and freshness.

If you know you'll have leftovers, consider preparing the components separately instead of assembling them. This way, you can maintain the texture and flavor integrity of the tomatoes and mozzarella, preserving their individual qualities for a future meal.

Variations to Try

While this Caprese salad recipe highlights heart tomatoes, experimenting with different varieties can yield delicious results. Use heirloom tomatoes for a more diverse flavor palette, or even mix in colored tomatoes for added visual and taste sensations. Additionally, substituting the mozzarella with burrata adds a rich, creamy element that intensifies the enjoyment of the dish.

For a unique twist, consider incorporating fruits like peaches or strawberries during the summer months. The sweetness of these fruits complements the tangy balsamic and fresh basil beautifully, making your Caprese salad feel seasonal and refreshing. You can also integrate nuts—such as pine nuts or walnuts—too; they provide an unexpected crunch and additional nutrition.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of tomatoes?

Absolutely! Any ripe tomatoes will work, but heart tomatoes add a unique sweetness.

→ How can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients and store them separately. Assemble the salad just before serving for the best freshness.

→ What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as a side to pasta dishes.

→ Is Caprese Salad vegan?

No, traditional Caprese salad contains mozzarella, which is a dairy product. However, you can replace mozzarella with a vegan cheese alternative.