What is a Caprese appetizer salad?

Caprese appetizer salad is a traditional Italian dish made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil, inspired by the colors of the Italian flag. It can serve as both an appetizer and a light salad, celebrated for its simplicity and fresh flavors originating from the island of Capri.

How do you make a Caprese appetizer salad?

Slice fresh tomatoes and mozzarella into thick pieces. Alternate them on a platter with fresh basil leaves in between. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic reduction, then season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. The process takes 5 to 10 minutes.

What are the best ingredients for a Caprese salad?

Use vine-ripened tomatoes or heirloom varieties, fresh mozzarella or burrata for creaminess, fresh basil leaves, good quality olive oil, balsamic reduction, coarse sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Each ingredient contributes to the salad’s distinct fresh and vibrant flavor.

Can I substitute ingredients in Caprese salad?

Yes, mozzarella can be swapped for burrata; cherry tomatoes or watermelon can replace slicing tomatoes for variation. Adding prosciutto, nuts, or alternative greens like arugula also creates delicious twists while maintaining the salad’s essence.

Caprese Appetizer Salad: Quick 10-Minute Skewers Recipe

Name: Quick & Easy Caprese Skewers: Perfect Recipe for a Classic 10-Minute Salad
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups balsamic vinegar; 3 ripe tomatoes, sliced thick (or 1 pint cherry tomatoes sliced in half for a variation); 12 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced thick (or mini mozzarella balls for convenience); Fresh basil leaves; Olive oil, for drizzling; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups balsamic vinegar
3 ripe tomatoes, sliced thick (or 1 pint cherry tomatoes sliced in half for a variation)
12 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced thick (or mini mozzarella balls for convenience)
Fresh basil leaves
Olive oil, for drizzling
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Pour balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-low heat. Let it cook until it reduces to a glaze, about 10 to 20 minutes.
2. Once reduced, allow the balsamic glaze to cool.
3. On a platter, arrange slices of tomato and mozzarella, alternating them, and place fresh basil leaves between each.
4. Drizzle the arranged slices with olive oil and the cooled balsamic reduction, ensuring even coverage.
5. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately as a delicious appetizer or side dish.

Last Step:

Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.

Notes

🧀 Use fresh, soft mozzarella for the best taste and texture; consider burrata for a creamier option.
🍅 Heirloom tomatoes add both color and unique flavors; regular slicing tomatoes work well too.
🌿 Assembling just before serving avoids a watery dish and retains freshness for the best presentation.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 skewer
Calories: 250
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 250mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 30mg