Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad
Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad is a vibrant and fresh summer dish featuring sweet, caramelized Roma tomatoes roasted to perfection and paired with creamy fresh mozzarella, fragrant basil leaves, and a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze. This easy and elegant salad balances warm roasted flavors with bright, refreshing ingredients, perfect for light meals, entertaining, or as a colorful side dish.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Salad Ingredients
- 6 Roma tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced or torn
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
Seasonings & Dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Optional
- 2 garlic cloves, whole or sliced (optional, for roasting)
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the Roma tomatoes in half and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and season lightly with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Optionally, add garlic cloves for extra flavor. Roast for 20-25 minutes until the tomatoes are tender and caramelized.
- Slice the Mozzarella: While the tomatoes roast, slice the fresh mozzarella into thick rounds or tear into chunks. Set aside to come to room temperature, enhancing its creaminess and flavor.
- Assemble the Salad: Arrange the roasted tomatoes on a serving platter. Scatter the mozzarella pieces among the tomatoes, and tuck fresh basil leaves throughout to release their aroma and fresh taste.
- Finish with Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle the salad generously with balsamic glaze and a final drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper to balance flavors. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Choose ripe but firm Roma tomatoes for best roasting results.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure even roasting and caramelization.
- Add fresh basil leaves just before serving to keep them vibrant and flavorful.
- Allow the mozzarella to reach room temperature for better taste and texture.
- You can make your own balsamic glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar until thick and sweetened.
- Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, keeping balsamic glaze separate until serving.
- Freezing is not recommended as it compromises the texture and flavor of ingredients.
- Reheat roasted tomatoes gently at 300°F (150°C) if you prefer them warm, but avoid reheating the whole salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
Keywords: Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad, Caprese Salad, summer salad, roasted tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, balsamic glaze, basil, gluten free, Italian salad