Chopped Caprese Salad Recipe

Tomatoes are the base ingredient of pasta sauce, pizza, and salads. One stand-out tomato-based dish is the caprese salad, and you don't need to travel to Italy to experience this fresh Italian staple salad. Wellness coach and recipe developer Miriam Hahn brings us this chopped caprese salad recipe, and says, "Traditional caprese salad is made by layering slices of tomato, mozzarella, and basil, and has a beautiful presentation. This chopped version is a little easier to eat (no knife needed), and a little quicker to throw together." 

Hahn goes on to say, "I love using tomatoes because they are full of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that can help prevent certain cancers and chronic diseases. Lycopene is responsible for the rich red pigment in tomatoes and other red foods" (via Healthline). This caprese salad is perfect to serve with anything grilled, or a bowl of pasta. Read on to see how we make this fresh caprese salad.

The star ingredient in this salad is the tomatoes, so grab some grape or cherry tomatoes. "The nice thing about using grape tomatoes," Hahn says, "is they can be bought several days before you need them, and they remain firm as opposed to beefsteak tomatoes, which soften very quickly. Plus, there is less precision needed when cutting [them]." In addition, you will need some fresh basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and mozzarella balls. Since basil has a pretty short shelf life, Hahn tells us to remove it from its package, and put it in a jar of water on the counter, like a bouquet of flowers. It should last for up to 1 week when stored this way.

First, chop the tomatoes in half, lengthwise. "I like using a medium-sized serrated knife for this versus a large chef's knife. It makes cutting tomatoes a breeze," Hahn remarks. "For the basil, remove it from the stems, stack about 6 leaves together, and slice them into slivers. Or, you can roll the stack of leaves, and slice them that way."

In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella balls. Then, pour in the dressing, and toss until combined. Your beautiful caprese salad is ready to serve. You can keep it chilled for a few hours before serving, but this isn't a salad you can make ahead of time. Like all dishes with fresh tomatoes, it is best eaten fresh. Enjoy your little taste of Italy!