Classic Italian Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-24 · Updated 2026-04-24

A refreshing Italian salad featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, finished with a tangy balsamic glaze. This Italian-inspired salad recipe (vegetarian), ready in about 22 minutes, pairs ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, fresh basil leaves into a side that holds its own next to almost any main — bright, balanced, and quick enough to slot into a weeknight plate. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly next to roasted proteins, grain bowls, or weeknight mains. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 3 medium, sliced 1/4-inch thick ripe tomatoes
• 8 oz, sliced 1/4-inch thick fresh mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup whole leaves fresh basil leaves
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Arrange alternating slices of 3 medium ripe tomatoes and 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (both sliced 1/4-inch thick) on a large serving plate, overlapping slightly.
2. Step 2: Tuck 1/2 cup whole fresh basil leaves evenly between the tomato and mozzarella slices.
3. Step 3: In a small saucepan over medium heat, pour 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reduces to a thick syrupy consistency.
4. Step 4: Drizzle the arranged salad with 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper evenly over the top.
5. Step 5: Finish by drizzling the balsamic reduction over the salad just before serving for a glossy, tangy finish.