Classic Caprese Recipe

Prepare mozzarella

Remove buffalo mozzarella from its liquid, pat gently with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Tear or slice into 12 equal pieces (about 1 oz each) and place in a shallow bowl suitable for marinating.

Prepare tomatoes

Wash the beefsteak tomatoes, core and cut into 1/3-inch thick slices (about 8–10 slices total depending on tomato size). Arrange slices on a large platter, slightly overlapping if desired.

Assemble greens

Place 2 cups of baby arugula in a clean bowl, lightly toss with 1 teaspoon of the prepared dressing (from the Marinade & Dressing section) to just wilt slightly, then place arugula in the center of the platter or scattered beneath tomato slices as preferred.

Make marinade/dressing

In a small bowl or jar whisk together 6 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 1 tsp minced garlic, 1 tsp sea salt, 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning; the dressing should be balanced, slightly tangy and well seasoned.

Marinate mozzarella

Pour about half of the dressing (roughly 3 tbsp) over the prepared mozzarella pieces in the shallow bowl, gently toss to coat, and let sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes to absorb flavor. Reserve remaining dressing for finishing the salad.

Arrange caprese

After mozzarella has marinated, arrange the torn/sliced mozzarella and tomato slices on the platter over or beside the dressed arugula, alternating tomato and mozzarella for a classic caprese presentation. Tuck fresh basil leaves between slices and scatter the extra basil leaves for garnish.

Dress and season

Drizzle the reserved dressing evenly over the assembled salad. If using, drizzle 2 tbsp balsamic reduction in a thin stream across the top for added sweetness and presentation. Finish with 1/2 tsp coarse flaky sea salt and an additional grind of black pepper to taste.

Serve

Let the salad sit 3–5 minutes to allow flavors to meld, then serve at once. Provide extra EVOO and balsamic reduction at the table if desired.