If you’re on the lookout for a fresh, vibrant dish that bursts with flavor and color, this Caprese Salad with Balsamic Dijon Dressing Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines creamy bocconcini, juicy grape tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all brightened up by a tangy, slightly spicy balsamic Dijon dressing that you’ll want to drizzle on everything. This salad screams effortless elegance, making it perfect for a quick lunch, an appetizer at your next dinner party, or a refreshing side dish any time of year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Caprese Salad with Balsamic Dijon Dressing Recipe. Each component plays an essential role — from texture to taste and even a pop of color that makes the salad so inviting.
- 1 clove garlic (grated): Adds a subtle but lively punch that wakes up the dressing without overpowering it.
- 4 tsp Dijon mustard: This provides a gentle heat and creaminess that balances the acidity of the balsamic vinegar beautifully.
- 4 tbsp balsamic vinegar: The star tang that brings depth and sweetness to the dressing.
- 7 tbsp olive oil: Offers a lush, silky mouthfeel and helps bind the dressing ingredients together.
- Salt (to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors and ties the dressing components in harmony.
- Black pepper (to taste): Adds a bit of warmth and spice to round out the flavor profile.
- 1 lb bocconcini (baby mozzarella balls): The creamy, tender little balls bring soft texture and mild taste to the salad.
- 1 lb grape tomatoes (halved): Juicy and sweet, they add bright bursts of freshness in every bite.
- 12 large basil leaves (chiffonade): Fresh basil provides fragrance, herbaceous notes, and a lovely green color to finish the look of the salad.
How to Make Caprese Salad with Balsamic Dijon Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Arrange the Salad Components
Start by placing the bocconcini and halved grape tomatoes evenly on a beautiful serving platter. The mix of creamy mozzarella and vibrant tomatoes creates an inviting base. Then, sprinkle the chiffonade basil leaves over the top to bring that fresh herbal aroma and a dash of green that makes this salad visually pop. Don’t forget to season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the natural flavors of your ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Balsamic Dijon Dressing
Next, grab a mason jar, bowl, or small container with a tight-fitting lid. Add the freshly grated garlic, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, plus a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until everything is completely emulsified and silky smooth. This dressing perfectly balances tangy, spicy, and sweet notes, making it a showstopper for the salad.
Step 3: Dress and Serve
Right before serving, drizzle the luscious balsamic Dijon dressing over the arranged salad. You can either let it elegantly pool on top or toss gently if you want to evenly coat every bocconcini ball and tomato half. Either way, the dressing adds that irresistible glaze and flavor kick that transforms the salad into a culinary delight.
How to Serve Caprese Salad with Balsamic Dijon Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
To take your Caprese salad up a notch, consider finishing with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a few twists of cracked black pepper. Fresh basil leaves can also be arranged whole as a garnish, or some toasted pine nuts can add a pleasant crunch that complements the creaminess.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm garlic focaccia, which helps soak up any extra dressing. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced, Mediterranean-inspired spread that’s as tasty as it is colorful.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, arrange the bocconcini, tomatoes, and basil in neat concentric circles or stripes on a long platter. Drizzle the balsamic Dijon dressing artistically using a squeeze bottle. You might also layer the ingredients in individual glass jars for a charming, portable presentation perfect for picnics or buffets.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers of the Caprese Salad with Balsamic Dijon Dressing Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep the ingredients fresh. It’s best to keep the dressing separate if you plan to store the salad for more than a couple of hours, otherwise the tomatoes might become a bit soggy.
Freezing
This salad doesn’t freeze well because fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella lose their texture after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh, so plan to consume it within a day or two.
Reheating
Since this salad is served cold, reheating is not recommended. However, you can let refrigerated leftovers sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving to bring out the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use regular mozzarella instead of bocconcini?
Absolutely! Regular mozzarella will work, though bocconcini’s smaller size and creamier texture make for a more elegant presentation. Just cut regular mozzarella into bite-sized pieces for the best experience.
Is Dijon mustard necessary in the dressing?
Yes, Dijon mustard plays an important role in emulsifying the dressing and adds a subtle zest that balances the sweetness of the balsamic vinegar perfectly.
Can I substitute balsamic vinegar with another type?
You can try red wine vinegar or sherry vinegar, but balsamic has a natural sweetness and depth that really complements this salad, so it’s worth sticking with if possible.
How long does the salad stay fresh after dressing?
For the best flavor and texture, enjoy it immediately after dressing. If you need to store leftovers, keep the dressing separate and toss the salad when ready to serve within a couple of hours.
Can I add other ingredients to this Caprese Salad with Balsamic Dijon Dressing Recipe?
Definitely! Sliced avocados, roasted red peppers, or even some toasted nuts can add new textures and flavors. Just be mindful of keeping the salad balanced so the main ingredients shine.
Final Thoughts
This Caprese Salad with Balsamic Dijon Dressing Recipe is a true celebration of fresh, simple ingredients combined with a dressing that packs a flavorful punch. Whether you’re serving it as a light meal or a stunning starter, it’s guaranteed to brighten your table and delight your taste buds. Give it a try — your friends and family will thank you for sharing this delicious gem!
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Caprese Salad with Balsamic Dijon Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This fresh and vibrant Caprese Salad Dressing recipe perfectly combines the creamy richness of bocconcini with juicy grape tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. The dressing is simple yet flavorful, made with grated garlic, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. It’s an elegant, no-cook dish that can be prepared quickly, ideal for a light appetizer or side salad that bursts with classic Italian flavors.
Ingredients
Salad
- 1 lb bocconcini (baby mozzarella balls)
- 1 lb grape tomatoes, halved
- 12 large basil leaves, chiffonade
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Dressing
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 4 tsp Dijon mustard
- 4 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 7 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the salad: Arrange the bocconcini and halved grape tomatoes evenly on a serving platter. Sprinkle the chiffonade basil leaves over the top, then season the entire salad lightly with salt and black pepper to enhance the freshness and flavors.
- Make the dressing: In a mason jar, add the grated garlic, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and emulsified into a smooth dressing.
- Serve the salad: Just before serving, drizzle the freshly made dressing over the Caprese salad. You may choose to toss the salad gently to coat all ingredients evenly, or serve it drizzled on top for a refined presentation.
Notes
- For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially the olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your taste preference.
- You can prepare the dressing in advance and refrigerate it; just shake well before using.
- Chiffonade basil refers to slicing the basil leaves into thin ribbons for even distribution.
- This salad is best served fresh and consumed the same day to enjoy optimal taste and texture.
