Easy Italian Caprese Salad Recipe - Low Carb Spark (2024)

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This Caprese Salad, or the Insalata Caprese is a classic Italian dish that is loaded with juicy, perfectly ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s topped with olive oil and a delicious balsamic glaze. The balsamic glaze brings together all the favors for an incredible Italian inspired meal, appetizer or snack. It is super easy to whip up, vibrant, yet incredibly tasty, and naturally low carb.

Caprese salad is the perfect recipe for a hot summer day; it’s refreshing, tasty, and light. During summertime, salads are my to-go lunches since they are easy to make, delicious, and they keep me hydrated and energized.

Ever since I visited Italy a few years ago, my absolute favorite summer dish is the Caprese Salad.

The combo of tomatoes, mozzarella, fresh basil, and balsamic glaze it’s incredibly mouthwatering. And it looks outstanding too. The colors are so beautiful and vibrant.

Why do I love to make Caprese Salad in the summer? Well, that’s because any tomato tastes excellent. I like to use larger varieties of tomatoes, Roma, cherry, or grape tomatoes.

What is Caprese Salad?

Caprese salad it’s a traditional Italian recipe made with fresh mozzarella cheese, juicy ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil, along with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This salad is famous worldwide for its vibrant colors and mouthwatering flavors. It’s the perfect combination of simple ingredients that create a delicious masterpiece on your plate.

Caprese Salad Ingredients

To make the best Caprese salad, use the freshest ingredients you can find. I love to drizzle thick balsamic glaze for an extra tangy and sweet taste in every bite.

• Tomatoes – Make sure the tomatoes are fresh, ripe, and red, whether using plum tomatoes or heritage tomatoes.
• Mozzarella -It’s crucial to be mindful of the mozzarella you choose. Avoid rubbery mozzarella by opting for high-quality cow or buffalo mozzarella. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try using creamy burrata as a delicious alternative.
• Fresh Basil – While you might be tempted to use dried basil, I firmly believe that Caprese salad isn’t quite the same without those vibrant green basil leaves. So, make sure to use fresh basil for the best flavor.
• Olive Oil – Don’t forget to drizzle some olive oil on top of your Caprese salad. It adds a lovely richness and enhances the overall taste.
• Vinegar – For an extra touch of flavor, balsamic vinegar is an excellent choice to pair with your Caprese salad.
• Salt & Pepper – to taste.
• Mixed Greens – Although optional, you can add a bed of mixed greens as a base for your Caprese salad if you’d like to introduce some additional freshness and texture.

How To Make Caprese Salad

Slice the mozzarella and tomatoes.

Start by slicing the fresh mozzarella cheese into thin, round slices. Similarly, slice the ripe tomatoes into medium-thick rounds.

You can also use bite-sized bocconcini mozzarella or cherry tomatoes for a different presentation.

Arranging The Salad

Take a serving plate and layer the mozzarella slices, alternating them with tomato slices. Tuck a fresh basil leaf between each mozzarella and tomato slice. Continue layering until you’ve used all the ingredients.

Drizzle the Caprese salad with extra virgin olive oil. Ensure that each layer gets a light coating of the oil to enhance the flavors.

Season with salt and pepper.

Making Balsamic Glaze

To make my favorite balsamic glaze, you need only one ingredient: balsamic vinegar. For some extra sweetness, you can add molasses, honey, or brown sugar while cooking (keep out for keto). Choose top-quality ingredients because it cooks faster and tastes better than the cheaper balsamic vinegar.

1. Add 2 cups balsamic vinegar to a medium pot or saucepan and place over medium heat.
2. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until it starts to thicken. You’ll know it is done when it’s thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
3. Allow cooling before serving.
4. Each serving (1 tsp) has about 2g carbs, so that’s the perfect low carb dressing for the Caprese salad.

Your Caprese salad is now ready to be served! It’s best enjoyed immediately to savor the freshness of the ingredients. Serve it as a side dish, appetizer, or even as a light main course.

Tips For Making The Best Caprese Salad

• Season the Tomatoes: Prior to adding the tomatoes to your salad, consider seasoning them. This step enhances their natural meatiness and helps extract their delicious juices, elevating the overall flavor.
• Grilled Zucchini or Eggplant: For an added twist, incorporate some grilled zucchini or eggplant into your Caprese salad. These low-carb options bring a smoky and savory element that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.
• Opt for Lemon Juice: If you’re following a low-carb diet, you can substitute balsamic vinegar with fresh lemon juice. This provides a tangy and zesty flavor while keeping the carb count down.
• Vegan Variation: If you follow a vegan lifestyle, you can replace the traditional cheese with slices of creamy avocado. Avocado adds a smooth and buttery texture, making it a delicious plant-based alternative.

Caprese Salad Recipe Variations

• Peach and Tomato Medley: Incorporate a combination of juicy peaches and ripe tomatoes. The sweet and tangy flavors of the peaches complement the salad beautifully. Alternatively, skip the fresh mozzarella and serve the tomatoes and basil with a luscious ball of burrata for a delightful variation.
• Avocado Delight: Add sliced avocado to your Caprese salad for a creamy and nutritious addition.
• Basil and Mint Fusion: Experiment with a blend of fresh basil and mint leaves for an aromatic twist. The combination of these herbs adds a refreshing and unique flavor profile to your salad.
• Pesto Perfection: Finish off your salad by adding generous dollops of basil pesto. The vibrant flavors of the pesto elevate the dish, adding an herbal and garlicky element.
• Toasted Pine Nut Crunch: For an additional textural element, sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the top of your Caprese salad. The nutty crunch enhances the overall experience and adds a delightful contrast.
• Mediterranean Twist: Add some Kalamata olives and thinly sliced red onions to your Caprese salad for a Mediterranean flair.

What To Serve With Caprese Salad

While Caprese salad is delicious on its own, it can also be paired with other dishes to create a satisfying meal. Here are some suggestions:

• Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: For a flavorful protein option, serve Caprese salad alongside crispy and tender air fryer chicken tenders. The combination of the juicy salad and crunchy chicken creates a delightful contrast of textures.
• Oven-Baked Chicken Breast: Another fantastic choice is to pair the Caprese salad with oven-baked chicken breast. The lean and succulent chicken complements the freshness of the salad, creating a balanced and nutritious meal.
• Bread: If you’re following a keto diet, consider enjoying Caprese salad with a slice of toasted keto bread spread with butter. The bread adds a satisfying element and can be a great option for those looking for a low-carb accompaniment.

How To Store

To ensure the freshness and quality of your Caprese salad, it’s essential to store it properly. Here’s how you can store Caprese salad:

If you have leftover Caprese salad, place it in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for up to 24 hours.

However, it’s important to note that Caprese salad is best enjoyed fresh and is most flavorful when served immediately after preparation.

Can I Make Caprese Salad Ahead?

• Keep the sliced tomatoes in a separate container. Cover them with plastic wrap or place them in a sealed plastic bag to prevent moisture loss and maintain their freshness.
• Store the sliced mozzarella cheese in a separate container, ensuring it is well-sealed to prevent any odors from transferring to the cheese.
• Keep the fresh basil leaves in a small container or wrap them in a damp paper towel to maintain their crispness.
• When you’re ready to serve, assemble the salad by arranging the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil leaves on a plate, and drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Other Salad Recipe You Might Like:

• Healthy Keto Egg Salad
• Easy Taco Salad
• Keto Chicken Salad
• The Best Creamy Cucumber Salad