Arugula Caprese Salad Recipe
Crunchy arugula brings the perfect bitter green to match the sweet tang of aged balsamic vinegar in this powerhouse salad spin on the traditional Italian Caprese Salad.
How to Make the Best Arugula Caprese Salad
This Arugula Caprese Salad is a sophisticated take on the classic Italian Caprese, bringing a delightful bitterness from peppery arugula that perfectly complements the sweet, rich balsamic vinegar. Fresh mozzarella and ripe heirloom tomatoes keep this salad fresh and elegant, while fragrant basil adds that unmistakable Mediterranean touch.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
This salad is the ultimate summer side dish—refreshing, light, and bursting with fresh flavors that come together in minutes. The combination of creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and peppery arugula creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes that works wonderfully alongside grilled meats or as a standalone dish. The aged balsamic vinegar is the secret ingredient that ties everything together, adding a deep sweetness and complexity that elevates this salad above the ordinary.
Tips for Success
Quality ingredients make all the difference in this simple salad. Seek out the best fresh mozzarella you can find, preferably from a specialty cheese counter, and choose ripe, flavorful heirloom tomatoes at peak season. Don’t skimp on the olive oil or balsamic vinegar—these are what bring this dish to life. For the best presentation, tear the basil by hand rather than cutting it to prevent bruising and browning.
Arugula Caprese Salad
Crunchy arugula brings the perfect bitter green to match the sweet tang of aged balsamic vinegar in this powerhouse salad spin on the traditional Italian Caprese Salad.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Dressing
Instructions
Assembly
- In a large bowl add arugula, tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil.
- Sprinkle with salt and cover with cracked pepper. About 5 to 7 turns of the peppermill.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Mix well with tongs, coating ingredients with olive oil, salt and pepper.
- Finish with a drizzle of aged balsamic vinegar on top for a pop of contrasting color.
Notes
- Use quality aged balsamic vinegar for the best flavor contrast.
- For a different twist, try arugula's milder cousin, rocket.