Caprese Salad with Heart Tomatoes

Name: Caprese Salad with Heart Tomatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 heart-shaped tomatoes, sliced; 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic reduction; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Inspiration

I absolutely love making Caprese Salad with heart tomatoes during the summer when the produce is perfectly ripe. Using these sweet and juicy tomatoes transforms the dish into something truly special. I like to layer the vibrant tomatoes with creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil, drizzling it all with a high-quality balsamic reduction. This simple yet exquisite salad not only pleases the palate but also serves as a beautiful centerpiece at any meal. It’s a fresh, colorful addition to my table whenever I want to impress family and friends.

Created by

Esmeray Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-08T10:42:35.038Z

When I decided to use heart tomatoes for my Caprese Salad, I was amazed by the burst of flavor they brought to the dish. Their sweet juiciness pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of fresh mozzarella, creating an unforgettable combination. To ensure the flavors shine, I recommend letting the salad rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the ingredients to mingle.

Another tip is to use fresh basil leaves, which add a fragrant herbal note that elevates the dish. I often drizzle the salad with a homemade balsamic reduction for an extra layer of flavor that tantalizes the taste buds and makes this Caprese Salad a true stand-out when entertaining guests.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy heart tomatoes bursting with flavor
Creamy mozzarella paired with fragrant basil
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

      

Choosing the Perfect Tomatoes

Using heart-shaped tomatoes is key to this Caprese Salad, as their sweetness and juiciness elevate the dish. When selecting your tomatoes, look for ones that are firm yet slightly yielding to the touch. This indicates ripeness. A vibrant color is a good sign they are full of flavor. If you can, choose organic varieties to enhance the taste and ensure you are using produce free of harmful pesticides.

For the best flavor, pick your tomatoes at room temperature. Cold tomatoes can lose some of their natural sweetness and taste bland. If you grow them yourself, allow them to ripen fully in the sun for an unparalleled flavor. If heart tomatoes aren't available, cherry tomatoes can be a substitute, though they may be a touch sweeter and less meaty.

Layering for Visual Appeal

The visual appeal of your Caprese Salad can make a big difference in enticing your guests. When layering the ingredients, aim for a pattern that alternates colors and textures. Begin with a slice of tomato, followed by a slice of mozzarella, and repeat this pattern until the plate is filled. Overlap them slightly for a more attractive presentation, and remember, arrangement matters; it should look as good as it tastes.

Once you've layered the tomatoes and mozzarella, don’t hesitate to take your basil leaves and layer them artfully throughout. The rich green of the basil against the red tomatoes and white mozzarella creates a striking contrast that’s just as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful Caprese salad:

Ingredients

4 heart-shaped tomatoes, sliced
8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
1 cup fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic reduction
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything ready, let’s proceed to the steps of preparing the salad.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Caprese Salad:

Layer the Ingredients

On a serving platter, alternate layers of sliced heart tomatoes and mozzarella, overlapping them slightly.

Add the Basil

Tuck fresh basil leaves in between the layers of tomatoes and mozzarella for added flavor and color.

Drizzle with Oil and Balsamic

Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic reduction over the arranged salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving. Enjoy your fresh and vibrant Caprese Salad!

This Caprese Salad is perfect for a warm day or as part of a picnic spread.

Pro Tips

Choose ripe tomatoes for maximum flavor, and try to use the freshest mozzarella you can find for the best taste. A sprinkle of balsamic glaze can enhance the overall dish as well.

Making Balsamic Reduction

A high-quality balsamic reduction can truly enhance the flavors in your salad. If you prefer making your own, simmer balsamic vinegar in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon—this should take about 10-15 minutes. Let it cool before drizzling over the salad. This reduction not only adds flavor but also gives a wonderful glossy finish to your dish.

You could also experiment with flavored balsamic vinegars if you want to add a layer of complexity to your salad. Honey or fig-infused balsamic vinegars can provide lovely sweetness, complementing the tomatoes and mozzarella beautifully. Just remember to taste as you go, adjusting the reduction to your preferred sweetness level.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Caprese Salad, store it properly to maintain its freshness. Place the salad in an airtight container, and it can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. However, be aware that the tomatoes may release moisture, affecting the texture of the mozzarella. To minimize this, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving.

For a delightful twist, try using any leftovers in a sandwich or wrap the next day. Just layer the ingredients onto your choice of bread or tortilla for a fresh lunch option. You can also toss the mixture with some cooked pasta for a ready-made pasta salad, giving you an entirely new dish with minimal effort.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of tomatoes?

Yes, while heart tomatoes are ideal, you can substitute them with any ripe heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but enjoy fresh for the best taste.

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best to assemble the salad shortly before serving to keep the tomatoes and mozzarella fresh.

→ What can I serve with Caprese Salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, crusty bread, or as a side to pasta dishes.