Caprese Salad with Homemade Dressing combines juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil with a simple balsamic dressing. It’s fresh, flavorful, and takes just minutes to put together.
I love making this when fresh tomatoes and basil are in season. The homemade dressing adds plenty of flavor without covering up the simple ingredients in the salad.
Why I Love This Recipe
About the Ingredients ⭐
- Fresh Mozzarella: Use mozzarella balls for creamy, mild flavor.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Add fresh, juicy tomato flavor.
- Fresh Basil: Gives the salad its classic Caprese flavor.
- Homemade Dressing: Olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Romano cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Be sure to check out the full recipe and ingredient list below
How to Make Caprese Salad
Assemble the Salad: Add the cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil to a large bowl.
Make the Dressing: Whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Romano cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is coated. Serve immediately.
Questions Readers Ask Most
Can I make Caprese Salad ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead, but wait to add the dressing until shortly before serving.
Can I use a different type of mozzarella?
Yes. Fresh mozzarella slices or a larger ball of fresh mozzarella cut into bite-sized pieces will work.
Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Yes. Grape tomatoes are an easy substitute and can be left whole or cut in half.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover Caprese Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The tomatoes and basil will soften as they sit.
More Salad Recipes I Love
Easy Caprese salad with homemade dressing
Caprese Salad with Homemade Dressing combines fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil with a simple balsamic dressing.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- - 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese balls
- - 8 ounces cherry tomatoes
- - 4 fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
For the Dressing
- - ½ cup olive oil
- - 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- - 2 tablespoons grated Romano cheese
- - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- - Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Add the cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil to a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Romano cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate briefly until ready to serve.
Notes
For the freshest flavor and texture, add the dressing shortly before serving.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 439Total Fat: 40gSaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 27gCholesterol: 47mgSodium: 471mgCarbohydrates: 6gFiber: 1gSugar: 3gProtein: 14g
3 Comments