Cherry Tomato Caprese Salad

Caprese salad—fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella cheese—is one of the easiest and most delicious ways to show off peak-season, Southern-grown tomatoes.

We're giving Caprese salad a fun new look by using multicolored cherry tomatoes and small fresh mozzarella balls (also called "bocconcini") tossed in a simple vinaigrette. The dressing calls for white balsamic vinegar—regular balsamic vinegar will taste fine, but will turn the cheese brown—but you can use white wine vinegar instead.

While we love the look of this side dish on a pretty platter, you can also skewer the ingredients to make Caprese bites, serve on toasted bread for bruschetta, or incorporate the same flavors into baked chicken.

No matter how you serve it, Cherry Tomato Caprese Salad is best at room temperature (not straight from the refrigerator) when the tomatoes are juicy, and the cheese is soft.

The History of Caprese Salad

Insalata Caprese, "salad of Capri," is a classic and beloved dish. It showcases staple Italian ingredients—tomato, mozzarella, and basil—that also happen to signify the colors of the Italian flag (red, white, and green).

While its exact origin is unclear, one story ties the first Caprese salad to a hotel in Capri in the 1930s, where a futurist dinner was the inspiration for this pasta-less dish featuring classic Italian flavors and colors. It quickly grew in popularity and is now one of Italy's most internationally recognized dishes.

Ingredients for Cherry Tomato Caprese Salad

Caprese salad is traditionally made up of sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, fresh basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

For this recipe, you'll need:

• Cherry tomatoes: A twist on the classic, cherry tomatoes make this dish perfect for serving a crowd. Choose cherry tomatoes available in a variety of colors for a visually stunning presentation.
• Bocconcini: "Small mouthfuls" in Italian, these are bite-sized balls of mozzarella cheese. If you can't find these, cut larger mozzarella balls into smaller pieces.
• Extra-virgin olive oil: Choosing a flavorful olive oil will help complement the simple ingredients in this dish.
• White balsamic vinegar: The light color of white balsamic helps keep the color of the cheese intact; it can also be substituted with standard balsamic vinegar.
• Kosher salt: Helps highlight and enhance the fresh tomatoes and mozzarella.
• Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and spice.
• Fresh basil: These bright herbs add depth of flavor; choose small leaves or micro basil if you can find it.
  

How To Make Cherry Tomato Caprese Salad

This dish is quick and easy to put together, but try to make it as close to serving time as possible. The longer the tomatoes sit, the more liquid will be released.

• Step 1. Combine ingredients: Toss to combine tomatoes, mozzarella, olive oil, balsamic, salt, and pepper.
• Step 2. Garnish: Stir in basil, or place delicately on top of the dish when serving; serve immediately.

What To Serve With Cherry Tomato Caprese Salad

Cherry Tomato Caprese Salad is a great starter course, appetizer, or side dish. Serve alongside garlic bread, pasta, and grilled vegetables, or as part of a light summer meal alongside grilled chicken or steak.

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.