Ina Garten Caprese Salad – Fresh, Classic, and Elegantly Simple

Ina Garten’s Caprese Salad is the perfect example of how a few high-quality ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s beautiful, delicious, and satisfying. With ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic, this Italian-inspired salad is a go-to for summer meals and entertaining.

What Is Ina Garten Caprese Salad?

Caprese salad (Insalata Caprese) is a traditional Italian dish that layers slices of fresh tomatoes and mozzarella cheese with basil leaves. Ina’s version stays true to the classic, sometimes adding a touch of balsamic vinegar or glaze for depth. It’s all about freshness and balance.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Blueberry Lemon Cream Cake
• Ina Garten Provencal Potato Salad
• Ina Garten Cucumber Tomato Salad
• Ina Garten Black Bean Salad

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Caprese Salad

• No cooking required – Simple and fast
• Highlights seasonal produce – Perfect for summer
• Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian
• Elegant presentation – Great for entertaining
• Balanced flavor – Creamy, juicy, and herby
• Pairs with many dishes – Very versatile
• Light and refreshing – Ideal for warm weather

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Caprese Salad

• 3–4 large ripe tomatoes (heirloom or vine-ripened), sliced
• 1 pound fresh mozzarella (preferably buffalo or bocconcini), sliced
• 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or glaze (optional)
• 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt or kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Caprese Salad

Step 1: Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella

Use a sharp knife to cut tomatoes and mozzarella into ¼-inch thick slices. Pat the mozzarella dry with a paper towel to avoid extra moisture.

Step 2: Arrange the salad

On a large serving platter, alternate slices of tomato and mozzarella in a slightly overlapping pattern. Tuck fresh basil leaves between every few slices for color and aroma.

Step 3: Season and dress

Drizzle the salad evenly with extra virgin olive oil. Add a light drizzle of balsamic vinegar or glaze if using. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 4: Serve fresh

Serve immediately at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. If chilling in advance, allow it to come back to room temperature before serving.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Caprese Salad

• Grilled chicken or steak – Complements fresh ingredients
• Pasta with olive oil or pesto – Light and balanced pairing
• Roasted vegetables or eggplant parmigiana – Mediterranean meal match
• Toasted baguette or garlic bread – Ideal for soaking up juices
• Chilled rosé or Pinot Grigio – Refreshing summer wine option
• Tomato soup or gazpacho – Makes a perfect two-course pairing
• Prosciutto or salami board – Adds a savory twist

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten’s Caprese Salad

• Use peak-season tomatoes – Flavor makes all the difference
• Choose high-quality mozzarella – Buffalo or fresh mozzarella is best
• Don’t refrigerate tomatoes – Keeps them juicy and sweet
• Add balsamic sparingly – Enhances flavor without overpowering
• Layer ingredients evenly – For visual appeal and balance
• Let sit 10 minutes before serving – Allows flavors to meld
• Garnish with small basil leaves – Keeps presentation tidy

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Caprese Salad

• Add avocado slices – For creaminess and extra nutrition
• Use burrata instead of mozzarella – Extra rich and indulgent
• Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts – Adds crunch
• Try a basil oil drizzle instead of balsamic – Pure herbal flavor
• Use multicolored heirloom tomatoes – Adds stunning visual contrast
• Top with a pinch of red pepper flakes – Gentle heat
• Add arugula or microgreens – Peppery green contrast

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Caprese Salad

• Best enjoyed fresh – Texture and flavor are best right after assembling
• Store leftovers in an airtight container – Eat within 1 day
• Keep chilled but serve at room temp – Let sit out before serving
• Avoid freezing – Tomatoes and mozzarella will become mushy

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten’s Caprese Salad

• No reheating required – Best served cold or at room temperature
• Let chill-off before serving – Enhances natural flavors
• Drizzle fresh olive oil before serving leftovers – Refreshes the salad

Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 300mg

Light, nutrient-rich, and bursting with flavor—perfect for a summer plate.

FAQs

What type of mozzarella is best for Ina Garten’s Caprese salad?

Fresh mozzarella or buffalo mozzarella is ideal for Caprese salad because of its soft texture and creamy flavor that pairs beautifully with tomatoes.

Can I prepare Caprese salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can slice the tomatoes and mozzarella in advance, but for best freshness, assemble and dress the salad just before serving.

Should I refrigerate Caprese salad before serving?

No, it’s best served at room temperature. Chilling can dull the flavors of the tomatoes and cheese.

Can I use balsamic glaze in a Caprese salad?

Yes, a drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and depth to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Caprese Salad is the definition of effortless elegance. With fresh, seasonal ingredients and a no-fuss approach, this dish captures the beauty of simple cooking. It’s ideal for lunch, as a dinner side, or as part of a vibrant Mediterranean spread. Fresh, colorful, and always a crowd-pleaser.

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