Name: Avocado Caprese Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced; 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and sliced; 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or reduction; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

Why You’ll Love Avocado Caprese Salad Recipe

It’s quick and easy — ready in about 20 minutes with minimal prep.
Bold fresh flavors from ripe tomatoes, basil, and creamy avocado pair perfectly with mozzarella.
Versatile as a side, appetizer, or light lunch.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
fresh mozzarella balls (perlini or bocconcini)
ripe avocado, diced
fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
extra‑virgin olive oil
balsamic vinegar (for reduction or glaze)
salt
black pepper
optional garlic powder for extra flavor

Directions

Prepare the balsamic glaze: Pour balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and simmer gently until it thickens into a glaze. Let it cool to room temperature.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, a pinch of salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the halved tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, diced avocado, and basil.
Dress the salad: Toss gently with the olive oil dressing, then drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 4 servings (can be adjusted).
Prep time: ~10 minutes.
Total time: ~20 minutes including balsamic glaze reduction.

Variations

Add arugula or baby greens for extra texture and volume.
Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein.
Swap the balsamic glaze for a simple balsamic vinegar drizzle if you prefer a lighter finish.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to about 24 hours. Note that avocado can brown, and the texture is best fresh.
Reheating: This salad is served cold — no reheating needed.

FAQs

What is Caprese salad?

Caprese salad is a classic Italian salad with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil. It traditionally doesn’t include avocado, but this variation adds creamy avocado for extra richness.

Can I use larger tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes — you can chop larger ripe tomatoes into bite‑sized pieces; cherry or grape tomatoes are just convenient.

How do I pick a ripe avocado?

Choose an avocado that yields slightly when gently pressed; too firm means it’s unripe.

Can this salad be made ahead?

You can prep the components ahead, but combine and dress right before serving so the avocado stays fresh.

What can I use instead of balsamic glaze?

A simple balsamic vinegar drizzle works well if you don’t want to make a glaze.

Is this salad vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is vegetarian as written.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes — simply omit the mozzarella or use a plant‑based cheese alternative.

What herbs go well with this salad?

Fresh basil is traditional, but you can add a little oregano or parsley if you like.

Can I add a protein to make this a main dish?

Yes — grilled chicken, shrimp, or beans make great additions.

What dressing pairs best with this salad?

A light olive oil and balsamic dressing or glaze pairs beautifully without overpowering the fresh ingredients.

Conclusion

This Avocado Caprese Salad is a vibrant, flavorful twist on a classic favorite. With juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and rich avocado dressed in balsamic and olive oil, it’s a refreshing dish perfect for summer meals or quick sides.