why make this recipe
This salad is simple, fresh, and full of flavor. Roasting the tomatoes brings out their sweetness. Fresh mozzarella and basil keep it light. It makes a quick side dish or a simple main for warm days.
introduction
Ina Garten’s Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad combines sweet roasted tomatoes, soft mozzarella, and fresh basil. The recipe uses small tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and balsamic vinegar. You can make it fast and serve it warm or at room temperature.
how to make Ina Garten Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad
Follow the steps below to roast the tomatoes and assemble the salad. The method is easy and uses common ingredients. Roast the tomatoes until they are soft and slightly caramelized, then layer them with mozzarella and basil. Finish with balsamic vinegar and a little olive oil.
Ingredients :
- 2 pints of cherry or grape tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- 2 tablespoons good-quality balsamic vinegar
- Optional: extra olive oil for drizzling
Directions :
- Step 1: Preheat the oven, Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: Season the tomatoes, Place the cherry tomatoes on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and add the minced garlic. Toss well to coat.
- Step 3: Roast the tomatoes, Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and slightly caramelized. Let them cool slightly after removing from the oven.
- Step 4: Assemble the salad, On a serving platter, alternate slices of mozzarella and spoonfuls of roasted tomatoes. Tuck fresh basil leaves throughout.
- Step 5: Drizzle and serve, Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and a little extra olive oil if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
how to serve Ina Garten Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad
Serve it on a large platter for a group or on small plates for one. It works well with crusty bread, grilled chicken, or a simple green salad. Serve warm or at room temperature — both taste great.
how to store Ina Garten Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the balsamic and extra oil separate if you plan to store for a while, then add them before serving. The tomatoes will soften more, so it is best eaten within a day or two.
tips to make Ina Garten Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad
- Use ripe cherry or grape tomatoes for best flavor.
- Don’t over-roast — stop when they are soft and slightly browned.
- Slice the mozzarella evenly so the salad looks balanced.
- Let the roasted tomatoes cool a little before layering to keep the cheese from melting too much.
- Taste and adjust salt and vinegar at the end.
variation (if any)
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Swap balsamic vinegar for a reduced balsamic glaze for a sweeter finish.
- Use burrata instead of mozzarella for a creamier texture.
- Add a few arugula leaves under the salad for peppery bite.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the roasted tomatoes ahead of time?
A: Yes. Roast the tomatoes and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Rewarm gently or serve at room temperature.
Q: Can I use larger tomatoes?
A: You can, but cherry or grape tomatoes roast faster and are sweeter. If using larger tomatoes, cut them into similar-sized pieces.
Q: Do I need to peel the tomatoes?
A: No. The skins roast well and add flavor and texture.
Q: Is there a dairy-free option?
A: Yes. Omit the mozzarella and add slices of avocado or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Q: Can I skip the garlic?
A: Yes. The garlic adds flavor but the salad is still good without it.
Conclusion
For the original recipe by Ina Garten, see the Food Network page for full details: Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad Recipe | Ina Garten – Food Network. For another version and notes from the Barefoot Contessa site, check this recipe page: Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad | Recipes – Barefoot Contessa. If you want a side-by-side look at Ina Garten’s salad and a similar recipe, this Simply Recipes review compares them: I Tried Ina Garten’s and Ree Drummond’s Caprese Salad—This Is …. For another take on slow roasted tomatoes that you can use here, see this guide: ina garten’s slow roasted tomatoes – a hint of rosemary. For a home cook’s version and tips, read this blog post: Roasted Tomato Caprese Salad – Ciao Chow Bambina.