Summer’s greatest treasure, Tomato Mozzarella Salad is a simple, refreshing recipe that can be whipped up in minutes. The BEST summer side dish combines juicy tomatoes, buttery mozzarella and a simple Basil Pesto Vinaigrette that’s crazy good.

Overhead shot of tomato mozzarella salad on a white platter.


Tomato Mozzarella Salad

Moving from hearty comfort food to simple, yet comforting, salads is so easy when the weather heats up. There’s something magical about heading to the farmer’s market to see what fresh produce awaits. And the recipes can be even more simple because the vibrant flavors don’t need much to make them shine.

Juicy summer tomatoes are where it’s at for us….we love fresh tomatoes still warm from the sun. They’re so hard to find in the winter but once the weather turns balmy, they’re the best they can be. And it doesn’t matter what type of tomato you try….they’re all juicy, tender and perfect for this Tomato Mozzarella Caprese Salad recipe.

Close up of Caprese Salad on a white platter.

How To Make Tomato Mozzarella Salad

This easy salad is simple to make but what makes it shine is the quality of the ingredients.

  1. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and add to a bowl.
  2. Cut the mozzarella balls in half and add to the tomatoes. Set aside.
  3. Whisk together the Basil Pesto and olive oil. 
  4. Pour the dressing over the tomatoes and toss to coat.
  5. Arrange the salad on a platter and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
  6. Drizzle with Balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze.
  7. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

You can skip the Basil Pesto Dressing, if you like, and simply drizzle your salad with a little olive oil and balsamic glaze. We love the vibrant punch of flavor you get with the Pesto Dressing so do give it a try once….I’m sure you’ll love it, too. The dressing comes together in under 30 seconds with a commercial pesto or my favorite homemade basil pesto recipe.

I like to make my Caprese Salad with cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes when tossing it in a big bowl as I did here. It makes it easier to eat when your serving it to friends at a picnic. Plus, the dressing gets into the nooks of the tomatoes making them extra tasty!

overhead shot of mozzarella and cherry tomatoes in a bowl on a blue background.
Tomatoes and mozzarella being stirred in a glass bowl with a wooden spoon.
Basil dressing being poured over tomato mozzarella salad.

What is Caprese Salad?

Caprese Salad, or Tomato Mozzarella Salad, is a simple side dish made of juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and basil. Typically, it’s seasoned simply with salt and pepper, a caprese salad recipe can include several twists to make it special.

Insalata Caprese, or Caprese Salad, as this salad is called in Italy, originated on the island of Capri, just south of the coast of Naples. The name translates to “salad of Capri”.

Like a Margherita Pizza….it features the colors of the Italian flag; red, white and green.

It’s a super healthy side dish you can enjoy guilt-free because the tomatoes are loaded with vitamins K and C, potassium, folate and antioxidants like lycopene. 

Serving Suggestions

Since this easy Tomato Caprese Salad is so simple, we like to serve it alongside equally simple entrees like this Baked Chicken Breast for a super healthy dinner. 

It’s also incredible with this grilled steak and a pile of garlic-y potatoes. 

Overhead shot of caprese Salad with cherry tomatoes on a white platter with basil leaves.

More Easy Salad Recipes

If you love this Tomato Mozzarella Salad, you’ll also like this Mediterranean Chickpea Salad…it’s simple, fresh and sooo healthy. 

But we also like making this Watermelon Feta Salad because it’s quick and refreshing for hot summer days. 

Or for a fun twist on summer appetizers, try these easy Strawberry Caprese Skewers!

DON’T MISS A RECIPE! FOLLOW US OVER ON INSTAGRAM AND FACEBOOK FOR MORE EASY FAMILY RECIPES.

Overhead shot of caprese Salad with cherry tomatoes on a white platter with basil leaves.

Get the Recipe: Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe

Yield: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Quick and easy, summer Caprese Salad is refreshing and quick to make with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and herby basil pesto. The perfect summer side dish.
4.34 from 3 votes
Print Recipe Rate Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Cherry tomatoes, cut in half
  • 1 1/2 cups fresh mozzarella balls, cut in half (Or cut a large mozzarella ball into 1/2 inch dice.)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons Basil Pesto
  • 3 tablespoons fresh chopped basil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper

Equipment

  • 1 mixing bowl

Instructions 

  • Add the tomatoes and mozzarella to a bowl. Toss to combine.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and pesto.
  • Pour the dressing over the tomatoes and toss to coat.
  • Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
  • Arrange on a platter and sprinkle with the basil.
  • Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and serve.

Notes

Caprese Salad can be made up to 3 days in advance.
Cover tightly and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Calories: 185kcal, Carbohydrates: 4g, Protein: 5g, Fat: 17g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Cholesterol: 10mg, Sodium: 95mg, Potassium: 114mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 2g, Vitamin A: 447IU, Vitamin C: 12mg, Calcium: 109mg, Iron: 1mg
Author: Kellie
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian