Classic Tomato and Mozzarella Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A simple yet elegant Caprese salad featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil finished with a tangy balsamic reduction. This italian-inspired salads (vegetarian) ready in about 20 minutes pairs sliced 1/4 inch thick fresh mozzarella, whole leaves fresh basil leaves, extra virgin olive oil 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 280 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.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pour 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vinegar reduces to a thick syrup that coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and let cool.
  2. Step 2: Arrange 3 medium sliced tomatoes and 8 oz sliced fresh mozzarella alternately on a large serving plate, overlapping slightly.
  3. Step 3: Tuck 1/2 cup whole fresh basil leaves between the tomato and mozzarella slices.
  4. Step 4: Drizzle the salad evenly with 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil and the cooled balsamic glaze.
  5. Step 5: Sprinkle 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper over the salad. Serve immediately for a fresh, colorful appetizer or side.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Classic Tomato and Mozzarella Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze take to make?

Total time is about 20 minutes (10 min prep + 10 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Classic Tomato and Mozzarella Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep extra virgin olive oil from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Classic Tomato and Mozzarella Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Classic Tomato and Mozzarella Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Classic Tomato and Mozzarella Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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