This juicy creamy Gordon Ramsay Caprese Salad is made with heirloom tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and ready in 10 minutes. The sweet tomato juices mingle perfectly with the thick balsamic glaze at the bottom of the plate. I love making this simple starter when summer produce is at its peak.
Why This Classic Works
I used to just throw any supermarket tomatoes onto a plate and call it a day. The results were usually watery and lacked any real flavor.
By sourcing proper heirloom tomatoes and tearing the mozzarella instead of slicing it, the dressing clings better to the cheese. Letting the tomatoes sit at room temperature first also makes a huge difference.
Gordon Ramsay Caprese Salad Ingredients
- 2 large heirloom tomatoes, thickly sliced
- 1 large ball fresh mozzarella cheese, roughly torn
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp thick balsamic glaze
- 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
How To Make Gordon Ramsay Caprese Salad
- Slice the tomatoes: Cut the heirloom tomatoes into thick slices and arrange them slightly overlapping on a large serving platter.
- Add the cheese: Tear the fresh mozzarella ball into bite-sized pieces and scatter them evenly over the tomato slices.
- Season the salad: Sprinkle the flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper generously over the tomatoes and cheese.
- Dress and garnish: Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze over the platter, then scatter the fresh basil leaves on top before serving.
Recipe Tips
- Room temperature matters: Never serve cold tomatoes straight from the fridge because the cold mutes their natural sweetness.
- Tear, do not slice: Tearing the mozzarella creates uneven edges that catch and hold the olive oil and balsamic glaze.
- Use flaky salt: A proper finishing salt adds a light crunch that contrasts well with the soft cheese and juicy tomatoes.
What To Serve With Caprese Salad
This light starter pairs exceptionally well with a rich pasta dish like spaghetti bolognese or a creamy risotto. You can also serve it alongside grilled chicken breast and a crusty baguette to soak up the leftover juices.
How To Store
This salad is best eaten immediately after assembly. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day, but note the basil will wilt.
FAQs
Can I use cherry tomatoes instead?
Yes, you can halve cherry or grape tomatoes if large heirloom varieties are not available. They often have great flavor year-round.
Do I have to use balsamic glaze?
Traditional Caprese only uses olive oil, but a thick balsamic glaze adds a sweet acidity that works really well.
Should I use regular or buffalo mozzarella?
Buffalo mozzarella has a richer, creamier flavor and softer texture, making it the better choice for this raw dish.
Nutrition
- Calories: 210
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 8g
- Protein: 9g
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Gordon Ramsay Caprese Salad
4
servings10
minutes10
minutesJuicy creamy Gordon Ramsay Caprese Salad features thick heirloom tomatoes, fresh torn mozzarella, and fragrant basil ready in just 10 minutes. Serve this quick and vibrant dish to easily impress guests before a summer dinner.
Ingredients
2 large heirloom tomatoes, thickly sliced
1 large ball fresh mozzarella cheese, roughly torn
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp thick balsamic glaze
1/2 tsp flaky sea salt
1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Directions
- 1. Slice the tomatoes: Cut the heirloom tomatoes into thick slices and arrange them slightly overlapping on a large serving platter.
- 2. Add the cheese: Tear the fresh mozzarella ball into bite-sized pieces and scatter them evenly over the tomato slices.
- 3. Season the salad: Sprinkle the flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper generously over the tomatoes and cheese.
- 4. Dress and garnish: Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze over the platter, then scatter the fresh basil leaves on top before serving.
