Caprese Salad with Heart Tomatoes

Name: Caprese Salad with Heart Tomatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 heart-shaped tomatoes, sliced; 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Balsamic reduction (optional)

Highlighted under: Authentic Favorites

When I first made this Caprese Salad with Heart Tomatoes, I was absolutely blown away by its simplicity and flavor. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella never fails to impress. I love how the heart-shaped tomatoes add both a pop of color and a hint of sweetness, elevating this classic dish. This salad is perfect for warm summer days or as an appetizer at any gathering. It’s a lovely reminder of the beauty of fresh, quality ingredients coming together in harmony.

Created by

Selene Woodward

Last updated on 2026-01-08T15:38:35.848Z

As I stood in my kitchen, the sun streaming through the window, I could almost smell summer on the horizon. I decided to whip up a Caprese Salad with Heart Tomatoes, relying on ingredients sourced from my local farmer's market. There's something magical about fresh basil paired with the juiciness of sun-ripened tomatoes that makes this dish a celebration of flavor.

One important tip I learned is to let the salad sit for a few minutes after assembling it. This allows the tomatoes to release some of their juices, melding with the olive oil and creating a light dressing that enhances the dish. It truly transforms this simple salad into something extraordinary!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Vibrant colors and fresh flavors that brighten any table
Heart-shaped tomatoes for a unique touch and added sweetness
Effortless to prepare, making it perfect for busy days or entertaining

      

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Selecting the best heart-shaped tomatoes is crucial for achieving the ideal flavor and sweetness in your Caprese Salad. Look for tomatoes that are firm but slightly yielding to the touch, indicating ripeness. The vibrant color should be deep red, with a glossy sheen. If you can, go for organic tomatoes to enhance the taste. Combine different varieties like Red Pear or even Heirloom tomatoes for an interesting flavor contrast and visual appeal.

Fresh mozzarella, often found in water or brine, should be soft and springy. When slicing, avoid pressing down too hard to maintain its creamy texture. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, part-skim mozzarella can be used, but keep in mind it will be less creamy and might lack the depth of flavor present in full-fat mozzarella.

Technique Tips for Assembly

For a beautifully arranged salad, use a large, flat platter and start layering the tomatoes and mozzarella in a circular pattern. This method not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also allows for even distribution of flavors with every bite. I recommend using a sharp knife for clean slices, especially for mozzarella, to ensure that the layers remain intact and don’t crumble.

When adding basil, opt for whole leaves instead of shredded ones. This prevents the basil from bruising and losing its flavor. If you want to infuse even more flavor, consider lightly bruising the basil by pressing the leaves in your palm before adding them to the salad. This amplifies their aroma and taste, creating a more vibrant dish.

Ingredients

Caprese Salad Ingredients

4 heart-shaped tomatoes, sliced
8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
1 cup fresh basil leaves
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Balsamic reduction (optional)

Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your preference!

Instructions

Assemble the Salad

On a large platter, alternate layers of sliced heart-shaped tomatoes and mozzarella cheese. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the layers for added flavor.

Season and Dress

Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the top, and season with salt and pepper as desired. If using, finish with a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a sweet tang.

Serve Immediately

For the best flavor, serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing tastes of this classic Caprese Salad.

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so make it just before serving!

Pro Tips

Using the freshest ingredients you can find will elevate this dish. Also, consider letting the tomatoes sit in a bit of salt for 10 minutes before assembly to enhance their flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Caprese Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to prepare it ahead of time, assemble the layers without the dressing and basil. This way, you prevent sogginess. When ready to serve, add the olive oil, salt, and pepper, and garnish with fresh basil to maintain its vibrant color and flavor.

Pair this salad with crusty bread or serve it as part of a Mediterranean-inspired platter with olives, cured meats, and grilled vegetables. It also makes an excellent side dish for grilled chicken or seafood, perfectly complementing the smoky flavors.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you have leftovers, store the Caprese Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day, but keep in mind that the tomatoes and cheese will lose their fresh texture and flavor. Avoid freezing this salad, as the mozzarella and tomatoes will not maintain their quality after being frozen and thawed.

For a delightful twist, consider making a Caprese Pasta Salad using the same ingredients. Just cook your pasta al dente, toss it with the salad components, and dress with olive oil and balsamic reduction for a heartier meal that's easy to prep in advance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute regular tomatoes for heart-shaped tomatoes?

Absolutely! While heart-shaped tomatoes add a unique touch, any variety of fresh tomatoes will work well in this salad.

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

You can replace the mozzarella with a vegan cheese or simply skip it altogether for a fresh, tomato-basil salad.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. However, for the best flavor, it's best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

It is best prepared just before serving to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. If needed, you can prep the slices and assemble them right before serving.