Chopped Italian Caprese Salad Recipe
This post may contain affiliate links (disclosure).
Bring the vibrant flavors of Italy to your table with this chopped Italian Caprese salad! Juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil are perfectly balanced with a simple balsamic vinaigrette. This easy-to-make salad is ideal for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.
This simple chopped Caprese salad is so delicious! Fresh mozzarella, basil and tomatoes with balsamic vinaigrette – so summery and refreshing!
Why You’ll Love Chopped Italian Caprese Salad
- Bursting with fresh flavors: The juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil create a perfect harmony of fresh, bold flavors. Every bite tastes like a refreshing summer day!
- Quick and easy to prepare: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute side dishes.
- A healthier option: Packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients and dressed with a light balsamic vinaigrette, this salad is a nutritious addition to any meal.
- Perfectly versatile: Whether you serve it as a side, appetizer, or light lunch, this salad pairs beautifully with almost any main dish.
- Eye-catching presentation: The vibrant red, green, and white colors mirror the Italian flag, making this salad as beautiful as it is delicious!
Classic Italian Caprese salad is more like an appetizer than a salad, made with large disk-shaped tomato slices topped with the slices of fresh Mozzarella cheese and basil leaves, laid out on a platter and drizzled with olive oil and vinegar. This version of Caprese salad is chopped, so tomatoes, mozzarella and basil are cut into pieces and tossed together in a bowl with a homemade dressing. No matter which way you make it, Caprese salad tastes amazing!
Ingredients For Chopped Italian Caprese Salad
- Cherry Tomatoes – These juicy little gems add a burst of sweetness and color to the salad.
- Fresh Mozzarella Cheese – Creamy and mild, it balances the tanginess of the tomatoes.
- Fresh Basil Leaves – The fragrant, peppery notes of basil bring out the salad’s authentic Italian flavors.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – A high-quality olive oil enhances the richness of the dressing.
- Balsamic Vinegar – Its tangy sweetness ties all the flavors together beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper – These simple seasonings bring out the natural flavors of the fresh ingredients.
For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.
Look at those bright beautiful colors! Red, green and white – the exact colors of the Italian flag! These colors couldn’t have been more perfect for this authentic Italian salad!
The combination of soft fresh Mozzarella, pungent basil leaves and juicy cherry tomatoes is mouthwatering! Such simple ingredients that taste so good together! Super juicy and refreshing!
Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Chopped Italian Caprese Salad
- Cutting Board – Essential for chopping the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- Knife – A sharp knife is needed for clean and precise cuts.
- Large Mixing Bowl – Perfect for tossing the ingredients together evenly.
- Measuring Spoons – To accurately measure the olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Small Cup or Bowl – For mixing the dressing before adding it to the salad.
Making chopped Caprese salad is as easy as it looks – what you see is what you get! Simply chop the cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls and basil leaves, mix it together, dressed with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, season with salt and pepper to taste, and this juicy fresh salad is ready to be devoured!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this chopped Caprese salad as a light side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or steak for a complete meal.
- Pair it with Italian bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious balsamic dressing.
- Add it to a picnic or potluck spread for a colorful and refreshing salad option.
- Spoon it over a bed of mixed greens or arugula for a heartier salad base.
- For an appetizer twist, serve the salad in small cups or on a dinner roll.
Tips For Success
- Choose the freshest ingredients: The quality of the ingredients makes all the difference in this simple salad. Use ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil for the best flavor. Avoid pre-shredded mozzarella, as it won’t deliver the same creaminess.
- Balance the dressing: While the combination of olive oil and balsamic vinegar is classic, feel free to adjust the ratio to suit your taste. Start with the suggested measurements and tweak it slightly if you prefer more tang or richness.
- Cut ingredients evenly: Ensure that the tomatoes and mozzarella are chopped into similar-sized pieces. This makes the salad easier to eat and ensures that every bite is well-balanced.
- Tear, don’t cut, the basil: Tearing basil leaves instead of chopping them helps preserve their oils, which adds more flavor to the salad. Plus, it gives the leaves a more rustic, natural look.
- Season thoughtfully: Add salt sparingly at first since the mozzarella already has a bit of saltiness. Taste the salad before adding more salt or pepper to avoid overpowering the flavors.
- Serve fresh: This salad is best enjoyed immediately after preparation. The basil wilts and the tomatoes release their juices over time, so avoid making it too far in advance.
- Experiment with add-ins: For a fun twist, add diced avocado, roasted red peppers, or a sprinkle of pine nuts. These ingredients pair wonderfully with the classic Caprese flavors.
Variations and Substitutions
- Add protein for a full meal: Toss in some grilled chicken, shrimp, or sliced salami to transform this salad into a satisfying main dish. The added protein complements the creamy mozzarella and tangy balsamic dressing.
- Swap the mozzarella: If you don’t have fresh mozzarella, try using bocconcini, burrata, or even crumbled feta cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Use different tomatoes: While cherry tomatoes are the classic choice, grape tomatoes or diced heirloom tomatoes also work beautifully. Heirloom varieties, in particular, add a burst of color and unique flavors.
- Experiment with herbs: If basil isn’t available, fresh arugula or parsley can add a nice peppery or earthy twist. A touch of dried oregano in the dressing can also give it a more robust flavor.
- Make it heartier with grains: Add cooked quinoa, farro, or orzo to make this salad more filling. The grains absorb the dressing and enhance the texture.
- Try a new dressing: While balsamic vinegar is traditional, you could substitute it with a splash of red wine vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a brighter flavor.
- Add a sweet element: A drizzle of honey or a few slices of ripe peach can add a delightful sweet contrast to the tangy and savory ingredients.
- Include nuts for crunch: Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds bring a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.
- Make it dairy-free: Skip the cheese and add marinated artichoke hearts or olives for a bold, Mediterranean-inspired alternative.
- Use flavored oils: Infused olive oils, such as garlic or lemon, can elevate the flavors of the dressing without much effort.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 1-2 days for the best taste and texture. Keep in mind that the basil may wilt, and the tomatoes will release juices as they sit.
- Reheating: This salad is served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. If it has been refrigerated, allow it to come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving to bring out the flavors.
- Dressing separation: If the salad sits for a while, the dressing may settle at the bottom. Simply give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the flavors.
- Avoid freezing: This salad does not freeze well due to the high water content of the tomatoes and the texture of the mozzarella.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While this salad is best served fresh, you can prepare some components in advance. Chop the tomatoes and mozzarella and store them in separate containers in the refrigerator. Mix in the basil and dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
What type of mozzarella should I use?
Fresh mozzarella is ideal for this recipe because of its creamy texture and mild flavor. You can use mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or a block of fresh mozzarella that you cut into cubes. Avoid pre-shredded mozzarella as it lacks the creaminess and flavor needed for this salad.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is highly recommended for its distinct aroma and flavor. If you must use dried basil, use it sparingly, and be aware that it won’t provide the same fresh, vibrant taste.
How do I prevent the salad from becoming watery?
Tomatoes naturally release water as they sit. To minimize this, serve the salad immediately after tossing with the dressing. Alternatively, you can lightly salt the tomatoes and let them sit in a colander for a few minutes before assembling the salad.
Can I use other types of vinegar for the dressing?
Yes! While balsamic vinegar is traditional, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for a slightly different flavor profile.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, as all the ingredients used are free from gluten. Just ensure that any additional ingredients, like pre-marinated mozzarella, are labeled gluten-free.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the mozzarella cheese and replace it with a plant-based alternative or marinated tofu. You can also add ingredients like artichoke hearts or olives for extra flavor.
What dishes pair well with this salad?
This Caprese salad is a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, pasta, or crusty bread. It also works as a refreshing appetizer or a light lunch when served on its own.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add cucumbers, roasted red peppers, or even avocado for a unique twist. These ingredients complement the classic Caprese flavors beautifully.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To make the salad more substantial, try adding cooked quinoa, farro, or orzo. You can also include protein-rich options like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier dish.
If you like Italian Caprese salad, you will also love these easy recipes:
Chopped Chickpea Salad – this amazing salad is so bright, colorful and refreshing! Super healthy too!
Cucumber, Tomato, Avocado Salad – simple ingredients and epic taste! This salad is a true crowd pleaser!
Homemade Basil Pesto – once you try making your own fresh pesto, you’ll never want to eat the one from the jar! Packed with fresh basil flavor!
Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs – if you have more fresh mozzarella left, try stuffing it into meatballs! Italian meatballs with gooey melted cheese inside – yummy yum yum!
Watermelon Feta Salad – unusual combination that tastes so good! Perfect summer salad!
Chopped Caprese Salad
Ingredients
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
- 1 small package fresh basil leaves
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Recommended Kitchen Tools (click the links below to see the items used to make this recipe)
- Large mixing bowl
Instructions
- Cut cherry tomatoes into halves or quarters.
- Cut fresh mozzarella into cubes.
- Tear the basil leaves into pieces and discard the stems.
- In a cup, combine the olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and whisk with a fork to combine.
- Put chopped tomatoes, mozzarella and basil in a bowl. Drizzle the oil and vinegar dressing over it. Mix everything until combined and coated with dressing. Add salt and pepper to taste.
More Italian Recipes
- Simple Italian Meatballs Baked in the Oven Recipe
- Traditional Italian Panettone Fruit Cake Recipe
- Quick Italian Chicken Parmigiana Recipe
Fresh, vibrant, and incredibly easy to make! This chopped Caprese salad combines juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for a refreshing summer side dish.
Bright and refreshing, perfect for any occasion.