Garden fresh tomatoes and herbs tossed with mozzarella in a two-ingredient dressing might just be the most simple, most delicious salad ever! Things this good just don’t need to be complimented.
I’ve been a fan of Caprese Salad for years. There is just something about fresh, sweet tomatoes with soft Mozzarella cheese. When it’s served, and I get that first little waft of fresh basil, my mouth starts watering, and honestly, I get downright giddy.
I love that this salad is dressed simply with a splash of good olive oil and balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. It’s like summer in every single bite!
My super simple version of a Caprese Salad takes out about fifty percent of the work needed (which the salad’s not hard to make to start with) to make this recipe. I use Mozzarella “pearls,” which you’ll find alongside regular Mozzarella in the grocery, and grape tomatoes.
Since I have pots of herbs growing right outside my back door, so I just pluck off some basil leaves, tear them up a bit and add them to the bowl for a bright burst of fresh flavor.
I add a bit of olive oil and balsamic to a mason jar with salt and pepper, shake then drizzle over the tomatoes, cheese, and basil. That’s it. Now comes the good part, enjoying this lovely creation!
Ways to serve Super Simple Caprese Salad:
- On its own for lunch or as a side dish at supper.
- With crusty bread as an appetizer.
- Over pasta for a light lunch or dinner.
- Piled on “take out” pizza for a fresh new twist.
- Add in tuna or rotisserie chicken and a bit of cooked pasta for a great protein-packed salad.
Let me know if you make this recipe!
You can rate it below, leave me a comment, or snap a picture. Just tag me on Instagram at #asouthernsoul.
Ingredients
- 1 pint grape tomatoes – cut in half
- 8 ounces Mozzarella pearls or cubes
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves – torn
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Add tomatoes, cheese and basil to a medium size bowl. Set aside.
- In a small bowl or mason jar, mix olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Pour over salad and gently toss. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and toss to mix. Serve immediately.
- **Best served at room temperature. Can be stored in refrigerator for two days.
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This was my favorite side at Red Lobster, only they told me they used Balsamic Glaze instead of vinegar. I finally found the pearls and intend to make it soon. Thanks so much for posting this. I also want to try the salad with pasta. It makes me hungry to think of it.
Hey there Carole!
I am with you, caprese salad was always my go-to side at red lobster as well! You can make it with either a balsamic reduction or balsamic vinegar depending on your personal preference. Thank you so much for your interest in this recipe and for this phenomenal rating! I really hope you enjoy this dish, let me know how it turns out!
~Donya
Yes! Simple! We loved it so much that we made 4 batches in 2 days! XD
Hey there Jenna!
Wow! I am absolutely thrilled y’all enjoyed this recipe, it’s a beautiful, light salad. If you liked this recipe, you should try my Caprese Pasta Salad or my Mediterranean Pasta Salad, they’re both very light salads that are full of delicious, bright flavors. Thank you so much for your kind words and this fantastic rating, I really appreciate your support! Have a great day!
~Donya
This sounds wonderful but I just don’t care for balsamic vinegar, what else could I use?
Hey Linda.
You could use red wine vinegar. You can substitute whatever kind of vinegar you like. Enjoy!
~Donya
Thank you dear!
Would you have a really good chicken spaghetti recipe you could post?
Hey Linda!
Here’s one of my family’s favorites. I hope you like it:
https://www.asouthernsoul.com/out-of-this-world-rotel-chicken-spaghetti/
Enjoy,
~Donya
My whole family loves this easy caprese salad. It pulls together in less than 5 minutes & it tastes great. Thank you for this easy recipe
I’ve actually done this salad with Italian dressing, also very yummy!