Fresh Avocado Caprese Salad

This avocado Caprese salad brings together creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil for a light and refreshing dish that works beautifully as a side or a simple meal. The drizzle of high-quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar adds just the right amount of tang and richness, making this salad a true summer favorite.

I first made this salad during a warm weekend gathering, and it quickly became a crowd-pleaser that everyone asks for again and again. It’s now one of my go-to dishes when I want something impressive without a lot of effort.

Ingredients

• Ripe avocados sliced: key for that creamy, buttery texture choose ones that yield slightly when pressed gently
• Cherry or vine tomatoes halved: juicy and sweet, they brighten the salad and add refreshing acidity
• Fresh mozzarella pearls or sliced mozzarella: brings a milky softness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes
• Fresh basil leaves torn: adds an aromatic, slightly peppery herb note that lifts the entire dish
• Extra virgin olive oil: rich and fruity use a quality oil for the best flavor
• Balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze: contributes a sweet and tangy complexity pick a thick glaze if you want a more dramatic presentation
• Salt to taste: essential for bringing out all the flavors
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste: adds subtle heat and spice
• Optional optional flaky sea salt or red pepper flakes: sprinkle these to finish with texture or a gentle kick

Step-by-Step Instructions

Slicing and prepping the ingredients:

Slice the ripe avocados carefully to keep the pieces intact and visually appealing. Halve the cherry or vine tomatoes for burst of juiciness. If mozzarella balls are very moist, pat them dry with paper towels to avoid excess liquid diluting the dressing.

Arranging the salad:

Take your serving plate and layer the avocado slices, tomato halves, and mozzarella pearls or slices in an alternating pattern or arrange them in a circular design. This layered look makes the salad visually stunning.

Adding fresh basil:

Tear fresh basil leaves gently by hand to release their aroma and scatter them evenly over the top of the arranged salad. This helps distribute the herb’s bright, peppery flavor in every bite.

Drizzling olive oil and balsamic:

Use a spoon or small pitcher to drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over the salad. Follow with the balsamic vinegar or glaze for a sweet and tangy finish that also adds a lovely gloss.

Seasoning:

Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. Optionally add flaky sea salt for crunch or a pinch of red pepper flakes to introduce a bit of warmth.

Serving immediately:

Serve the salad right away to preserve the fresh, creamy textures and vibrant flavors. Waiting too long can cause the avocado to brown and the tomatoes to release too much juice.

Save

One of my favorite parts about this salad is the ripe avocado. Its creamy texture feels indulgent but is really wholesome. I remember the first time I served this at a backyard dinner party and the compliments rolled in instantly. It’s a recipe that looks fancy without being complicated.

Storage Tips

Because avocado browns quickly, it’s best to enjoy the salad immediately after assembling. If you need to prepare in advance, keep avocado slices submerged in lemon water until ready to arrange. Store the salad components separately in airtight containers and combine just before serving for best freshness.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh mozzarella is hard to find, burrata makes for an even creamier, richer option that will melt slightly into the avocado and tomato. Cherry tomatoes can be swapped for grape tomatoes or even thinly sliced regular tomatoes. If you dislike balsamic vinegar, a light squeeze of fresh lemon juice works to brighten the flavors without adding sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with crusty bread for soaking up the juices or can be served alongside grilled chicken or seafood for a heartier meal. A light sprinkle of toasted pine nuts adds crunch and a nutty flavor contrast that complements the creamy textures.

Cultural Context

Caprese salad originates from the Campania region of Italy and traditionally features tomatoes mozzarella and basil, representing the colors of the Italian flag. Adding avocado is a modern twist, blending creamy California produce with classic Mediterranean flavors to create a fusion that feels both fresh and indulgent.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of tomatoes work best in this salad?

Cherry or vine tomatoes are ideal for their juiciness and sweetness, balancing the creamy avocado and mozzarella textures.

→ Can I substitute burrata for mozzarella?

Yes, burrata adds extra richness and creaminess, enhancing the salad’s flavor profile beautifully.

→ How should the balsamic vinegar be applied?

Drizzle balsamic vinegar or glaze evenly over the assembled salad to add a tangy sweetness that complements the fresh ingredients.

→ Are there optional ingredients to enhance flavor or texture?

Toasted pine nuts provide a delightful crunch, while lemon zest brightens the dish. Red pepper flakes add a subtle heat if desired.

→ What serving suggestions pair well with this salad?

This salad can be served as a light side or combined with grilled chicken or shrimp for a fuller meal.