Zucchini and Tomato Caprese Salad
A vibrant summer salad featuring thinly sliced zucchini, ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a light balsamic dressing. This italian-inspired salads ready in about 15 minutes pairs medium zucchinis, medium tomatoes, torn fresh basil 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 2, 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
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 4 medium tomatoes
- 1/4 cup torn fresh basil
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 minced garlic clove
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper to make the dressing; set aside.
- Step 2: Thinly slice 2 medium zucchinis lengthwise and cut 4 medium tomatoes into wedges; arrange in a single layer on a platter.
- Step 3: Scatter 1/4 cup torn fresh basil over the vegetables, then drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to coat; serve immediately.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Zucchini and Tomato Caprese Salad take to make?
Total time is about 15 minutes (15 min prep + 0 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 Zucchini and Tomato Caprese Salad?
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 medium zucchinis from drying out.
Can I substitute ingredients in Zucchini and Tomato Caprese Salad?
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 Zucchini and Tomato Caprese Salad for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). 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.
What goes well with Zucchini and Tomato Caprese Salad?
Italian salads like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
My family devoured this in minutes! The tomatoes were so juicy and the zucchini made it feel substantial without heaviness.
- ★★★★★
Made this for a summer potluck and it was a huge hit! The caprese elements with zucchini made it feel extra special.
- ★★★★★
This salad was a refreshing change from my usual dinners. The zucchini added such a lovely texture and balanced the tomatoes perfectly.
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