Print

Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad

Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad

Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad transforms the classic Caprese by slow-roasting tomatoes, intensifying their sweetness and flavor while maintaining the fresh basil and creamy mozzarella. This vibrant, easy-to-make salad is perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or appetizer and celebrates simple, bold summer flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups ripe plum or cherry tomatoes
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls or sliced log
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp balsamic glaze or vinegar
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cloves garlic (optional, for roasting)

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Roast the Tomatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice larger tomatoes in halves or quarters and toss cherry tomatoes whole with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Optionally add garlic cloves for extra flavor. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender, slightly caramelized, and bursting with flavor.
  2. Arrange the Salad Base: On a serving platter, lay down sliced mozzarella evenly spaced to create a beautiful backdrop for the roasted tomatoes.
  3. Add the Roasted Tomatoes: Once the tomatoes have cooled slightly, place them atop the mozzarella slices, ensuring the juices drizzle over the cheese for extra moisture and flavor.
  4. Garnish with Fresh Basil: Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter over the tomatoes and cheese, adding aromatic brightness to the dish.
  5. Dress and Season: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze or vinegar lightly over the entire salad. Finish with a sprinkle of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Notes

  • Use ripe tomatoes for the best natural sweetness after roasting.
  • Don’t over roast tomatoes; keep some shape to avoid mushiness.
  • Let mozzarella come to room temperature for creamier texture and flavor.
  • Add basil just before serving to keep it vibrant and green.
  • Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance every bite.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese, roasted tomato, salad, summer salad, Italian, fresh basil, mozzarella