Olive Garden-Style Caprese Salad

This version focuses on whole-food ingredients and simple, minimally refined seasonings to recreate the classic flavor profile with fresh, whole-food sources.

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Ingredients

  • 3 large organic heirloom tomatoes
  • 8 oz fresh organic buffalo mozzarella pearls
  • 1/2 cup fresh organic basil leaves
  • 1/4 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp raw balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tsp raw honey
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Cracked black pepper to taste

Clean swaps

How we upgrade the restaurant version with better ingredients.

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Shop the clean pantry

Reorder the shelf-stable staples for this recipe.

What you'll need

  • Half-sheet pan — Bake, broil, or roast appetizers on a flat, rimmed surface.
  • Small ramekins — Individual portions for dips, baked eggs, and small bites.
  • Pastry brush — Brush egg wash or oil on dough without tearing it.

Instructions

  1. Wash and slice heirloom tomatoes into thick rounds.
  2. Arrange tomato slices on a platter, alternating with mozzarella pearls.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, raw balsamic vinegar, and honey.
  4. Drizzle the homemade dressing evenly over the tomatoes and mozzarella.
  5. Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter them over the salad.
  6. Season generously with sea salt and cracked black pepper.
  7. Let the salad rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought mozzarella for this recipe?

For a truly clean-eating version, it's best to use fresh, organic buffalo mozzarella pearls. Store-bought varieties may contain added preservatives.

Is there an alternative if I cannot find raw balsamic vinegar?

Yes, you can use traditionally made balsamic vinegar that is aged rather than pasteurized. This ensures it's free from artificial additives and retains its natural flavor and benefits.

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