Homemade Caprese Perfection

Experience the vibrant flavors of Italy with this enhanced Caprese Salad Recipe, now featuring creamy avocado and a zesty homemade basil vinaigrette. This classic combination of fresh, juicy tomatoes and soft mozzarella is elevated to a new level of deliciousness, making it an irresistible addition to any meal or a delightful light lunch.

Before diving into this delightful salad, you might also enjoy these related recipes: Balsamic Caprese Chicken or Caprese Pasta.

Author’s Note

An Authentic Caprese Salad Recipe, Inspired by Italy

My culinary journey through Italy earlier this spring was nothing short of magical. Beyond the breathtaking landscapes and historic charm, I found myself deeply inspired by the simplicity and freshness of Italian ingredients. My husband and I immersed ourselves in various cooking classes, learning to craft everything from luscious homemade gelato to rich and savory ragu. But it was a particular class in Siena, nestled in the heart of Tuscany, that truly captured my heart and became the catalyst for this very Caprese salad recipe.

The class was held in the rustic upstairs kitchen of an old farmhouse, presided over by the most wonderfully lively Italian nonna. She welcomed us into her home as if we were long-lost family, sharing not just recipes but also a lifetime of kitchen wisdom. Among the traditional Italian dishes we prepared, her Caprese salad stood out. It wasn’t just a dish; it was an experience – a celebration of fresh, high-quality ingredients speaking for themselves. Her tips, gleaned from years of cooking and even running her own restaurant, were invaluable, particularly her secret for maximizing basil flavor. This recipe is my tribute to that unforgettable afternoon and the vibrant spirit of Italian cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Caprese Salad

This isn’t just any Caprese salad; it’s a fresh, flavorful, and incredibly easy dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a favorite:

• A Fresh Twist on a Classic: While staying true to the beloved Italian trio of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, we’ve introduced creamy avocado to add a layer of richness and healthy fats, transforming the texture and flavor profile.
• Bursting with Flavor: The star of this dish is undoubtedly the homemade basil vinaigrette. Unlike a simple drizzle of olive oil, this vibrant dressing infuses every bite with a complex blend of fresh basil, zesty lemon, savory garlic, and a hint of shallot.
• Quick and Easy: With only 20 minutes of prep time, this salad is perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or when you crave something fresh without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Visually Stunning: The bright red tomatoes, verdant basil, pearly white mozzarella, and creamy green avocado create a beautiful mosaic of colors, making this salad as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate. It’s a true showstopper!
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fresh vegetables, lean protein from mozzarella, and healthy fats from avocado and olive oil, this salad is a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Key Ingredients for the Best Caprese Salad

The secret to an outstanding Caprese salad lies in the quality and freshness of its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture.

• Garden-Fresh Tomatoes: Opt for ripe, sweet tomatoes. Campari tomatoes, with their robust flavor and firm texture, are excellent, as are sweet cherry or grape tomatoes. If you have access to vibrant, seasonal heirloom tomatoes, they’ll elevate this salad even further. The fresher the tomato, the sweeter and more succulent your salad will be.
• Creamy Mozzarella: We use delicate mozzarella pearls in this recipe for their soft texture and mild, milky flavor. They are convenient and perfectly sized. If you’re using a block of fresh mozzarella (not the hard, dry kind), ensure it’s high-quality fresh mozzarella packed in water. Cut it into bite-sized pieces that match the size of halved pearls for a consistent eating experience. Bocconcini or ciliegine are also great options.
• Abundant Fresh Basil: A Caprese salad wouldn’t be complete without the aromatic essence of fresh basil. This herb provides a peppery, slightly sweet, and utterly distinctive flavor that is central to the dish. Don’t skimp on it! We use it both in the dressing and as a topping for an extra burst of freshness.
• Ripe Avocado: The addition of avocado is our delightful twist. Its rich, buttery texture and mild flavor complement the acidity of the tomatoes and the creaminess of the mozzarella beautifully, adding a satisfying depth and healthy fats to the salad.
• Homemade Basil Vinaigrette: While a simple drizzle of olive oil is traditional, our basil vinaigrette is a true game-changer. Crafted with fresh basil, minced garlic, shallots, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice, it coats every ingredient with an explosion of herby, tangy flavor. This dressing is so good, you’ll want to put it on everything!
• High-Quality Olive Oil: Essential for both the dressing and a potential drizzle over the salad. Use a good extra virgin olive oil for its fruity and sometimes peppery notes.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all the natural flavors, bringing them to life.

How To Make The Perfect Caprese Salad Recipe

Creating this delicious Caprese salad is surprisingly simple. Follow these detailed steps to achieve a perfectly balanced and flavorful dish.

1. Prepare the Basil Vinaigrette:

   Begin by combining the minced garlic, minced shallot, and coarsely torn or chopped fresh basil leaves in a small food processor. Pulse these ingredients 6-8 times until they are finely chopped and fragrant. Tearing the basil instead of cutting it helps release more of its aromatic oils – a valuable tip I learned from a nonna in Italy! Next, add the red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the food processor. Pulse a few times to combine. With the food processor running on a low setting, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the dressing is emulsified and smooth. Be careful not to over-process the mixture once the olive oil is added, as this can sometimes make the dressing bitter.

2. Prepare the Caprese Salad Components:

   Wash your tomatoes thoroughly. If using Campari tomatoes, slice them in half, then cut them into wedges. For cherry or grape tomatoes, simply halve them. Place the prepared tomatoes into a large mixing bowl. Take your mozzarella pearls and halve them, then add them to the bowl with the tomatoes. Gently tear the remaining fresh basil leaves into rustic pieces and sprinkle them over the tomatoes and mozzarella. Finally, carefully chop your large avocado into bite-sized pieces. To prevent the avocado from browning, immediately squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over it before adding it to the bowl.

3. Assemble and Dress the Salad:

   With all your fresh ingredients in the bowl, it’s time to dress your Caprese salad. Start by drizzling about half to two-thirds of the basil vinaigrette over the salad. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the dressing evenly coats the tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and avocado. Taste a small portion and add more dressing if desired. I personally love the bold flavor, so I often use all of it, but you can adjust to your preference. Finish with a final sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This salad is best enjoyed immediately after preparation, as fresh avocado and delicate mozzarella don’t typically hold up well as leftovers.

Quick Tip: Homemade Balsamic Glaze

A balsamic glaze can add a wonderful sweet and tangy counterpoint to Caprese salad, whether as an alternative to the basil vinaigrette or a supplementary drizzle. You can easily find balsamic glaze in most grocery stores, but making your own is simple and rewarding:

To make your own, combine 1/2 cup of good quality balsamic vinegar with 1/2 tablespoon of honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option) in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer slowly, stirring occasionally, until the glaze has thickened and reduced to approximately 2 tablespoons. This process usually takes about 7-12 minutes, depending on your stove and the width of your pot. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Let it cool slightly before drizzling, as it will continue to thicken as it cools.

Tips for the Perfect Caprese Salad

• Quality Matters: As mentioned, the freshness and quality of your ingredients are paramount. Invest in ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and vibrant basil.
• Basil Prep: Always tear basil leaves by hand rather than cutting them with a knife. Tearing helps release more of the essential oils, intensifying the herb’s aroma and flavor.
• Prevent Avocado Browning: A squeeze of lemon juice immediately after chopping avocado is crucial to prevent oxidation and keep it looking fresh and green.
• Dress to Taste: The basil vinaigrette is robust. Start with less and add more as you toss the salad until it reaches your desired level of flavor. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
• Serve Immediately: Caprese salad, especially with avocado, is best enjoyed the day it’s made. The ingredients are at their peak freshness, and avocado tends to soften and discolor over time.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile Caprese salad with avocado and basil vinaigrette pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes:

• Main Course Accompaniment: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or steak for a balanced and flavorful meal.
• Light Lunch: Enjoy it on its own for a refreshing and satisfying light lunch. Add some crusty bread for dipping.
• Appetizer or Side Dish: It’s a perfect starter for an Italian-themed dinner or a vibrant side dish for any summer barbecue or potluck.
• Bruschetta Topping: Spoon the salad over toasted baguette slices for an elevated Caprese bruschetta.
• Add a Protein: For a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled shrimp, shredded chicken, or chickpeas.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Leftover Salad: Caprese salad, particularly with avocado, does not store well. The avocado will brown, and the tomatoes and mozzarella can release excess moisture, making the salad watery. It is highly recommended to enjoy this salad on the same day it’s prepared.
• Make-Ahead Dressing: The basil vinaigrette is an excellent component to prepare in advance. Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s normal for the dressing to darken in color and separate; simply let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes and shake well to recombine before serving. If it solidifies due to the cold, this brief time at room temperature will help.
• Partial Prep: If you need to prepare ahead for a party, you can slice the tomatoes and mozzarella, tear the basil, and store each component separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Prepare the dressing. Chop the avocado and combine all ingredients just before serving for optimal freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
  No, absolutely not for this recipe. Fresh basil is the cornerstone of Caprese salad’s flavor and aroma. Dried basil has a completely different flavor profile and will not yield the same vibrant, fresh results in either the salad or the vinaigrette.
• What kind of tomatoes are best for Caprese salad?
  The best tomatoes are ripe, in-season, and full of flavor. Campari, cherry, grape, or small heirloom tomatoes work wonderfully. They offer a good balance of sweetness and acidity and a pleasing texture. Avoid under-ripe or mealy tomatoes.
• Can I make this Caprese salad dairy-free?
  Yes, you can! Substitute the fresh mozzarella pearls with a high-quality dairy-free mozzarella alternative. Many brands now offer plant-based mozzarella that melts and tastes surprisingly similar to dairy mozzarella, though for a cold salad, texture is key.
• Is this salad healthy?
  Yes, this Caprese salad is incredibly healthy! It’s packed with nutrient-rich ingredients like fresh tomatoes (lycopene), basil (antioxidants), avocado (healthy fats, vitamins K, C, B5, B6, E, and potassium), and fresh mozzarella (protein, calcium). The homemade basil vinaigrette uses healthy olive oil and fresh herbs, making it a wholesome and delicious choice.

★★★★★
5 from 3 votes

Caprese Salad Recipe with Basil Dressing

By
Chelsea Lords

This vibrant and nutritious Caprese Salad puts a delicious twist on the classic Italian dish. It adds creamy avocado and a fragrant basil vinaigrette to the traditional mix of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and soft mozzarella.

Prep Time:
20 minutes

Total Time:
20 minutes

Servings:
4 servings

Equipment

• Food processor

Ingredients

Basil Dressing

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced shallot
• 1 cup chopped basil packed (see note 1)
• 1-1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Caprese Salad

• 6 Campari tomatoes or 3 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup halved mozzarella pearls
• 1/3 cup fresh basil
• 1 large avocado
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

Dressing

1. Add the garlic, shallot, and coarsely chopped basil to a small food processor. Pulse 6–8 times to chop the ingredients. Add the red wine vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse a few times, and while running, drizzle in the olive oil and pulse until smooth. Avoid pulsing the mixture too much with the olive oil.

Salad

1. Slice the tomatoes in half, then cut them into wedges and add to a large bowl. Halve the mozzarella pearls and add to the bowl. Tear the basil and add on top. Chop the avocado and add to the bowl, adding a squeeze of lemon to keep it from browning.
2. Dress the salad with the basil dressing to taste. You may want less dressing than the full amount. Add salt and pepper. Enjoy the same day this salad is made; leftovers don’t keep well.

Recipe Notes

Note 1: If you’re buying fresh-cut herbs from the refrigerated produce section, you’ll need about one and a half packages of the 3/4-ounce containers. Give the basil leaves a quick coarse chop, including most of the stems, then lightly pack into a 1-cup measuring cup to achieve the correct measurement.

Note 2: Leftover dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. It may darken in color and separate, which is normal. If it solidifies due to the cold, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes, then shake well to recombine.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 serving
|
Calories: 386 kcal
|
Carbohydrates: 8g
|
Protein: 14g
|
Fat: 35g
|
Saturated Fat: 7g
|
Cholesterol: 21mg
|
Sodium: 53mg
|
Potassium: 532mg
|
Fiber: 5g
|
Sugar: 2g
|
Vitamin A: 4358IU
|
Vitamin C: 27mg
|
Calcium: 360mg
|
Iron: 4mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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Caprese Salad Recipe Variation Ideas

While the classic Caprese is perfect, this salad is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some creative variations to inspire your culinary adventures:

• Sweet & Savory Peach Caprese: For a delightful summer twist, replace the tomatoes with slices of fresh, ripe peaches. Combine them with creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and thin slices of savory prosciutto. Drizzle generously with a rich balsamic reduction for a truly exquisite sweet and salty experience.
• Classic Balsamic Drizzle: If you’re short on time or prefer a more traditional flavor profile, you can swap out the basil vinaigrette entirely for a luscious balsamic reduction. Its concentrated sweetness and tang will beautifully complement the fresh ingredients. Refer to the “Quick Tip” section above for an easy homemade balsamic glaze recipe.
• Mild Balsamic Vinaigrette: For a lighter, less intense balsamic flavor than a reduction, consider using a good quality balsamic vinaigrette. This offers a gentler tanginess that won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the tomatoes and mozzarella. You can find a fantastic balsamic vinaigrette recipe in my Caprese Quinoa Salad post.
• Pure & Simple Olive Oil: Sometimes, less is more. For the purest expression of Caprese flavors, skip the vinaigrettes and glazes altogether. Instead, drizzle everything with an excellent quality extra virgin olive oiland a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. The quality of your olive oil will truly shine here.
• Add a Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the salad just before serving.
• Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate some pitted Kalamata olives and thinly sliced red onion for a more Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Herb Garden Fresh: Experiment with other fresh herbs alongside or instead of basil, such as fresh mint or oregano, to discover new flavor combinations.