Tami's Tri-Color Caprese Delight

This fresh and colorful salad combines ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil for a simple yet delicious treat. Perfect for a light lunch or a vibrant side dish that’s sure to brighten any meal.

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TIME21 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

3 large yellow tomatoes, sliced 1 (4 ounce) package fresh basil, leaves stripped from stems 3 large red tomatoes, sliced 10 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced 1 shallot, very thinly shaved 2 tablespoons olive oil, or to taste 1 ½ tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar, or to taste salt and ground black pepper to taste

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by layering your yellow tomato slices, whole basil leaves, red tomato slices, and mozzarella pieces on a serving platter, alternating them to create a colorful pattern. Once everything is arranged, sprinkle some shaved shallots over the top for a bit of bite. Next, drizzle a good splash of olive oil and balsamic vinegar across the salad. Finally, season it with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper. Give it a gentle toss or just leave it as is, and you’re ready to enjoy!

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Use the freshest tomatoes and mozzarella for the best flavor.
- Drizzle high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the taste.
- Let the salad sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Why you’ll love it

This dish combines fresh, vibrant ingredients that are both healthy and delicious. The mix of colors makes it visually appealing, while the flavors of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil create a perfect balance. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for any season.

Serving ideas

Serve this salad as a starter or a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It also pairs well with crusty bread or a chilled glass of white wine. Adding a sprinkle of balsamic glaze can give it a sweet and tangy finish.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the salad fresh, add the basil leaves just before serving. Avoid dressing the salad too far in advance to prevent sogginess.