Description
Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad elevates a classic summer favorite by roasting tomatoes to bring out a smoky-sweet caramelized depth. Combined with fresh mozzarella, aromatic basil, garlic, olive oil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, this light and refreshing salad is perfect as a starter, side, or light meal. Simple to prepare yet impressive in flavor and presentation, it’s a versatile dish ideal for any occasion during peak tomato season.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1 pint plum or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss halved plum or cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, whole peeled garlic cloves, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Spread them cut side up on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, until the tomatoes are softened and caramelized.
- Cool and Drain: Remove the roasted tomatoes from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. This helps excess juices drain off to keep the salad from becoming watery.
- Layer the Salad: On a large serving plate, alternate slices or small balls of fresh mozzarella with the roasted tomatoes. Nestle fresh basil leaves between the layers to add color and aroma.
- Dress and Finish: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil generously over the arranged salad, then add a swirl of balsamic glaze. Finish by sprinkling sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Notes
- Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor impact.
- Roast garlic along with tomatoes to add subtle, mellow sweetness.
- Serve the salad at room temperature to maximize flavor and texture.
- If mozzarella feels too moist, pat it dry before assembling to prevent sogginess.
- Add fresh basil leaves just before serving to maintain their vibrant color and aroma.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad, Roasted Tomatoes, Caprese Salad, Summer Salad, Mozzarella Salad, Basil Salad, Balsamic Glaze Salad, Gluten Free Salad
