Spicy Balsamic Caprese Salad Recipe
A classic Italian Caprese Salad featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, finished with a homemade balsamic glaze. This refreshing and easy-to-make salad is perfect as a light appetizer or side dish.
CourseSalad
CuisineItalian
Keywordcaprese salad, Italian salad, fresh mozzarella, balsamic glaze, tomato basil salad, easy salad recipe, appetizer, Stovetop
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time11 minutes
Total Time31 minutes
Servings6 servings
Calories210kcal
Ingredients
Balsamic Glaze
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 ½ teaspoon honey (optional)
Salad
- 3 medium tomatoes, cut into ⅓-inch slices (about 20 oz.)
- 16 oz. fresh mozzarella, cut into ⅓-inch slices
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Whisk together the balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and let simmer until thickened and reduced down to nearly 2 tablespoons, about 11 minutes.
- Pour the glaze into a small bowl and let it cool to room temperature, roughly 10 minutes.
- On a rimmed serving platter, layer the tomato slices, fresh mozzarella slices, and fresh basil leaves in an alternating pattern.
- Drizzle the assembled salad with extra virgin olive oil and the cooled balsamic glaze. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Honey is optional depending on the sweetness of your balsamic vinegar and your personal taste—feel free to omit or adjust accordingly.
- Add avocado slices or minced garlic for extra flavor variations.
- You may omit the balsamic glaze altogether if preferred for a simpler salad.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 210kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 30mg | Sodium: 220mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g