Name: Caprese Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 8 oz mozzarella pearls (about 1½ cups); ½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn; ¼ cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons vinegar (balsamic or white wine); 1 garlic clove, minced; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a dish that looks beautiful, tastes amazing, and comes together in minutes. That’s exactly what this Easy Caprese Salad with Cherry Tomatoes delivers. It’s colorful, refreshing, and packed with the kind of clean, bright flavors that make you feel like you’re sitting under the Italian sun—even if you’re just in your backyard on a Tuesday evening.

This Caprese salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients. Juicy cherry tomatoes are the star here, bursting with sweetness and paired perfectly with creamy mozzarella pearls and fragrant fresh basil. A light drizzle of olive oil, a splash of vinegar, and a hint of garlic bring everything together with a tangy, savory finish.

I’ve made this salad more times than I can count, especially during the summer months when tomatoes are at their peak. It’s become a staple at potlucks, family picnics, and lazy weekend lunches. And honestly? It’s one of those recipes that makes you look like you’ve put in a ton of effort, even though it takes just ten minutes to toss together.

Whether you’re serving this alongside grilled chicken thighs or scooping it up with warm, crusty bread, this Caprese salad always hits the right note. The best part is that it’s totally customizable, so you can tweak it to suit whatever you’ve got in your fridge. Let’s dive in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Caprese salad isn’t just pretty—it’s practical. Here’s why you’ll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket:

Quick and easy: It takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor: With just a few simple items—tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, olive oil, and vinegar—you get a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
Family-friendly: Kids love the mild mozzarella and juicy tomatoes, while adults appreciate the fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Great for meal prep: It keeps well in the fridge, so you can make it ahead and enjoy it over a couple of days.
Naturally halal and vegetarian: There’s no need to make any adjustments—this dish is already a wholesome, inclusive option for most diets.

Every bite is a balance of textures and flavors. The cherry tomatoes are juicy and sweet, the mozzarella adds a soft creaminess, and the basil gives it that unmistakable fresh kick. The vinegar dressing cuts through the richness just enough, and the olive oil adds a smooth finish.

If you’re looking for something fresh, fast, and flavorful, this salad checks every box.

Health Benefits

Besides tasting incredible, this Caprese salad is loaded with health benefits. Every ingredient brings something to the table—literally.

Cherry tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, especially lycopene, which helps protect against heart disease and supports skin health. They’re also low in calories but high in vitamin C, potassium, and folate.

Mozzarella pearls, especially when made from whole milk, provide a good dose of calcium and protein. They help with bone health and can keep you feeling full longer, which makes this salad a satisfying option on its own.

Fresh basil is more than just a garnish. It contains anti-inflammatory properties and is rich in vitamins A, K, and C. It’s also believed to help support digestion and immune function.

Olive oil, particularly extra virgin olive oil, is a heart-healthy fat. It’s full of monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants that are known to support brain function and reduce inflammation.

Garlic, even in small amounts, adds a lot of nutritional value. It has antibacterial and antiviral properties and may help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol.

With all these benefits, this Caprese salad isn’t just a pretty plate—it’s a nutritional powerhouse disguised as a delicious side dish.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: Serves 4 people
Calories per serving: 157
Macronutrients per serving:

Fat: 3.5g
Protein: 6.9g
Net Carbs: 2.3g

This recipe is low in carbs, moderate in protein, and light on fat, making it suitable for those following low-carb or keto-friendly diets.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this simple, stunning salad:

3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved – These are sweet, juicy, and perfect for bite-sized salads.
8 ounces mozzarella pearls (about 1½ cups), preferably whole milk – They offer a rich, creamy contrast to the tomatoes.
½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn or thinly sliced – Adds a peppery, herbal brightness.
¼ cup olive oil – Use extra virgin for the best flavor and health benefits.
2 tablespoons vinegar – Balsamic adds sweetness, white wine vinegar brings tang. You can mix them for a balanced punch.
1 garlic clove, minced – Gives the salad a little savory depth.
½ teaspoon kosher or sea salt – Enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – Adds just a hint of spice and warmth.

Optional: A pinch of sugar if your tomatoes are a bit too tart, or some red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s walk through exactly how to make this easy Caprese salad from start to finish. It’s super straightforward, but I’ll share a few extra tips along the way to help you get it just right.

Prep your ingredients
Start by rinsing your cherry tomatoes and cutting them in half. If you’re using large basil leaves, roll them up and slice them thinly (this is called a chiffonade). Mince your garlic, and measure out the rest of your ingredients.
Mix the salad
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add your halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and fresh basil.
Make the dressing
In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Give it a quick taste and adjust the vinegar or seasoning if needed. If you want it sweeter, a small pinch of sugar can mellow the acidity.
Toss everything together
Pour the dressing over the tomato and mozzarella mixture. Using a large spoon or salad tongs, gently toss everything until it’s evenly coated. Be careful not to mash the tomatoes—they should stay nice and plump.
Chill (optional)
While you can serve this salad right away, letting it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes helps the flavors meld together. If you’re prepping it ahead, wait to add the basil until just before serving to keep it fresh and green.
Taste and adjust
Give the salad one final taste before serving. Adjust the salt, pepper, or acidity if needed. Then you’re good to go.

How to Serve

This Caprese salad is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with just about anything. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Serve as a light starter or side with grilled chicken, beef roast, or lamb chops.
Spoon over toasted baguette slices for a fresh take on bruschetta.
Add to a bed of arugula or mixed greens for a heartier salad.
Use as a topping for grilled flatbread or pita for a fun appetizer.

Pairing Suggestions

For a well-rounded meal, pair this Caprese salad with complementary dishes:

Main courses: Grilled halal chicken thighs, beef kofta skewers, or herb-roasted turkey breast.
Starches: Couscous, garlic mashed potatoes, or warm quinoa salad.
Drinks: Sparkling water with lemon, iced mint tea, or a homemade fruit spritzer.
For kids: Serve with buttered pasta or warm dinner rolls for a simple, satisfying combo.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

This salad is best when fresh, but it can be stored for short periods:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The basil may wilt slightly, but the flavor will still be great.
Freezing: Not recommended. Fresh tomatoes and mozzarella don’t freeze well and tend to become watery once thawed.
Reheating: This salad is served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is needed.

To refresh leftovers, add a bit more fresh basil and a splash of vinegar before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using unripe or bland tomatoes: Ripe, juicy tomatoes make all the difference. If they’re too firm, they’ll lack sweetness and flavor.
Skipping the basil: Basil is essential to that classic Caprese taste. Don’t leave it out unless absolutely necessary.
Using low-quality mozzarella: Opt for mozzarella pearls made from whole milk for the best texture and flavor.
Overdressing the salad: Start with a smaller amount of dressing and add more as needed. You don’t want everything swimming in oil.
Adding basil too early: It wilts quickly, especially if the salad is chilled. Add it just before serving to keep it vibrant.

Pro Tips

Make it heartier: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or avocado to turn this salad into a full meal.
Chill your serving bowl: Especially on hot days, this keeps the salad crisp and refreshing.
Use a variety of tomatoes: Mix in yellow or heirloom cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and flavor.
Toast the garlic: If raw garlic is too strong, sauté it briefly in olive oil before adding it to the dressing.
Customize the vinegar: Balsamic glaze adds a sweet finish, while red wine vinegar brings a bold tang.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Yes, grape tomatoes work just as well. Just be sure to halve them for easier eating.

Can I use sliced mozzarella instead of pearls?
Absolutely. Just cut it into small cubes or thin slices to match the size of the tomatoes.

Is it okay to use dried basil?
Fresh basil is ideal, but if it’s not available, use a pinch of dried basil. Add it to the dressing so it rehydrates a bit.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but add the basil right before serving to keep it from wilting.

What kind of vinegar should I use?
Balsamic vinegar is traditional, but white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar both work. You can even mix them for a balanced flavor.

How long will leftovers keep?
Stored properly, the salad will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Can I make this dairy-free?
You can skip the mozzarella and add chunks of avocado for creaminess.

Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes! Grilled chicken, boiled eggs, or chickpeas all make great additions.

Is this salad low-carb?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbohydrates and fits into many low-carb meal plans.

How can I make it more filling?
Serve it over quinoa or pasta, or add a handful of toasted nuts or seeds for extra protein and crunch.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Easy Caprese Salad with Cherry Tomatoes is everything you want in a quick and healthy dish—bright, flavorful, and wonderfully simple. Whether you’re serving it as a side at your next barbecue, bringing it to a potluck, or enjoying it as a light lunch, it never disappoints.

Now it’s your turn to give it a try! I’d love to hear how it turns out in your kitchen. Did you stick to the classic version or add your own twist? Leave a comment below and let me know. And if you snap a photo of your salad, be sure to tag me—I love seeing your creations!

Fresh, fast, and full of flavor—this Caprese salad is ready to be your new favorite.