15 Best Caprese Recipes That Go Way Beyond the Salad
Get creative with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
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When summer arrives and ripe tomatoes are in season, there's no better time to make a classic Caprese salad. There’s just something so refreshing about the simple dish made up of juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and beautiful basil. And yet, even Ree Drummond waits all year to make it. "Caprese salad is just about my favorite thing on earth," she says. It's no wonder Ree takes things one step further by making other summer recipes inspired by the fresh ingredients in a classic Caprese. We're talking creative pastas, chicken dinners, and fun homemade pizzas. If you love this classic flavor combo as much as The Pioneer Woman, check out the inventive Caprese-inspired recipes on the list ahead.
All you need to make a Caprese recipe is three basic ingredients: tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. (A drizzle of good-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper will make it complete.) But you could also add other classic ingredients like pesto or balsamic vinegar depending on the recipe. Then, it's time to let your creativity shine! Try transforming Caprese into a breakfast frittata with burst cherry tomatoes and melty mozzarella or serve it up in a chilled pasta salad. We've also included some pretty hand-held appetizers, like Caprese skewers and pastry bites, that are perfect for a summer party. Looking for a fun weeknight dinner? The grilled pork chop Caprese is ready in 10 minutes or less! Just be sure to make them before tomato season comes to an end.
Caprese Pasta Salad
This recipe turns one salad into another salad, but trust us, it's delicious! The addition of noodles and a white balsamic dressing will make it a summer potluck favorite.
Get the Caprese Pasta Salad recipe.
Caprese Frittata
This recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even breakfast-for-dinner. The drizzle of pesto over the top really makes it.
Get Ree's Caprese Frittata recipe.
Grilled Pizza
There are so many ways to top grilled pizza, but using fresh tomatoes, basil, and creamy burrata is one of the best. They pair so well with the crispy, charred dough.
Get the Grilled Pizza recipe.
Caprese Salad
We couldn't have a Caprese recipe round-up without at least one classic take on the summer dish! This is Ree's favorite way to prepare it, with a drizzle of tangy, homemade balsamic glaze.
Get Ree's Caprese Salad recipe.
Caprese Chicken Pasta
This quick weeknight dinner combines burst cherry tomatoes, melty cheese, and hearty chicken with rigatoni pasta and a flavorful breadcrumb topping. You'll love the added crunch!
Get Ree's Caprese Chicken Pasta recipe.
Pesto Caprese Panini
It doesn't get easier than this toasted sandwich. The fun twist on a grilled cheese is even better when layered with pesto.
Get Ree's Pesto Caprese Panini recipe.
Caprese French Bread Pizzas
Swap fussy dough for store-bought bread, then top it with melted cheese, homemade pesto, thick slices of beefsteak tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. All you need is a simple arugula salad on the side.
Get Ree's Caprese French Bread Pizzas recipe.
Burrata Salad
This elevated twist on a Caprese salad is made with multi-colored tomatoes and mozzarella's "fancier" cousin: burrata. It's extra creamy and rich.
Get the Burrata Salad recipe.
Grilled Pork Chop Caprese
These boneless pork chops get a simple rub of seasoning made with dried basil, brown sugar, and garlic before hitting the grill. They stay extra moist and flavorful thanks to the toping of mozzarella and tomatoes.
Get the Grilled Pork Chop Caprese recipe at The Modern Proper.
Rosemary Caprese Skewers
Sprigs of fresh rosemary take the place of skewers in this pretty appetizer. It's a creative way to switch things up for any get-together.
Get Ree's Rosemary Caprese Skewers recipe.
Chicken Caprese Salad
This recipe is similar to a pasta salad, but it uses fluffy couscous instead. Adding salad greens and hearty chicken will make it a meal in itself.
Get the Chicken Caprese Salad recipe.
Bruschetta with Mozzarella
Just like a classic Caprese, this toasted bread appetizer has a topping of tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil. By rubbing the bread with olive oil and garlic, it adds even more flavor.
Get the Bruschetta with Mozzarella recipe at Britney Breaks Bread.
Caprese Risotto
This ultra creamy risotto has a hint of sweetness from the fresh cherry tomatoes. And when you stir in the little mozzarella pearls, it becomes oh so divine.
Caprese Pastry Bites
There are so many fun creations you can make with store-bought puff pastry, and this bite-sized appetizer is one of them. Each puff pastry square is topped with mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, and basil.
Garlic Balsamic Caprese Chicken
A flavorful garlic balsamic marinade is the key to making this juicy chicken dish. Give the baked chicken, cherry tomatoes, and cheese a quick broil to get everything perfectly melted.
Get the Garlic Balsamic Caprese Chicken recipe at The Chunky Chef.
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