Holiday Chopped Caprese Salad

Featured in: Simple Family Recipes

This holiday chopped caprese showcases a colorful mix of halved cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella balls, accented with thinly sliced basil. Drizzled with extra-virgin olive oil and a balsamic glaze, it offers a bright, fresh flavor perfect for easy serving. This cool, no-cook dish comes together in minutes, ideal for festive celebrations or light meals. Optional additions like diced avocado or pomegranate seeds add a special seasonal touch. Serve it chilled with crusty bread or alongside roasted dishes for a balanced spread.

Updated on Wed, 26 Nov 2025 08:04:00 GMT
Bright red tomatoes and fresh mozzarella star in this Simple Holiday Chopped Caprese Salad. Save to Pinterest
Bright red tomatoes and fresh mozzarella star in this Simple Holiday Chopped Caprese Salad. | bloomoven.com

A festive twist on the classic Italian salad, featuring fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, all chopped and tossed for easy serving perfect for holiday gatherings.

This simple holiday chopped Caprese salad became an instant favorite at my family dinners because of its bright flavors and easy presentation

Ingredients

  • Cherry tomatoes: 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved (use a mix of red and yellow for extra color)
  • Cucumber: 1 cup cucumber diced (optional for added crunch)
  • Fresh mozzarella balls: 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine) quartered
  • Fresh basil leaves: 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves thinly sliced
  • Extra-virgin olive oil: 2 tbsp
  • Balsamic glaze: 1 tbsp plus more for drizzling
  • Sea salt: 1/2 tsp
  • Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp

Instructions

Combine:
In a large salad bowl combine the halved cherry tomatoes diced cucumber (if using) and quartered mozzarella balls
Add basil:
Add the sliced basil leaves
Dress:
Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze
Season:
Sprinkle with salt and pepper
Toss:
Gently toss everything together until well mixed
Serve:
Transfer to a serving platter or bowl Drizzle with extra balsamic glaze if desired Serve immediately
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| bloomoven.com

My family loves gathering around the table to enjoy this colorful salad especially during the holidays

Required Tools

Large salad bowl cutting board sharp knife serving spoon

Allergen Information

Contains dairy (mozzarella cheese) Gluten-free as written always check labels on cheese and balsamic glaze for hidden gluten or additives

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories 210 Total Fat 14 g Carbohydrates 8 g Protein 11 g

Chopped, vibrant Simple Holiday Caprese Salad with basil offers a delicious Italian vegetarian dish, perfect for holidays. Save to Pinterest
Chopped, vibrant Simple Holiday Caprese Salad with basil offers a delicious Italian vegetarian dish, perfect for holidays. | bloomoven.com

This salad is the perfect balance of fresh flavors and festive appeal ideal for any holiday table

Recipe FAQs

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, it can be assembled a few hours ahead and refrigerated. Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving to keep fresh.

What variations can enhance the flavor?

Adding diced avocado or pomegranate seeds boosts creaminess and festive color, enhancing the overall taste.

Is there a vegan alternative?

Use plant-based mozzarella to replace dairy while maintaining creaminess and texture.

How should I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated up to 24 hours for optimal freshness.

What dishes pair well with this salad?

This chopped caprese complements roasted meats and crusty bread for balanced meal options.

Holiday Chopped Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella and colorful cherry tomatoes tossed with basil and balsamic for festive gatherings.

Prep Duration
15 min
0
Entire Time
15 min
Created by Rachel Moore

Recipe Group Simple Family Recipes

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type Italian

Makes 4 Portions

Dietary Info Vegetarian-Friendly, No Gluten

Ingredient List

Vegetables

01 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (use a mix of red and yellow for color)
02 1 cup cucumber, diced (optional)

Cheese

01 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine), quartered

Herbs

01 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced

Dressing

01 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
02 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (plus extra for drizzling)
03 1/2 tsp sea salt
04 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Step 01

Combine fresh ingredients: In a large salad bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber if using, and quartered mozzarella balls.

Step 02

Add herbs: Incorporate the thinly sliced basil leaves into the bowl.

Step 03

Dress the salad: Drizzle extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze over the ingredients.

Step 04

Season: Sprinkle sea salt and freshly ground black pepper evenly over the salad.

Step 05

Toss gently: Gently toss all ingredients together until well mixed and coated with dressing.

Step 06

Serve immediately: Transfer to a serving platter or bowl, drizzle with additional balsamic glaze if desired, and serve without delay.

Essential Tools

  • Large salad bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Serving spoon

Allergy Notes

Review ingredients to spot any allergens and ask your healthcare provider if you're unsure.
  • Contains dairy from mozzarella cheese.
  • Gluten-free as stated; verify balsamic glaze and cheese labels for potential gluten or additives.

Nutrition Details (per portion)

Use this info as a reference only; it doesn’t replace health guidance.
  • Caloric Value: 210
  • Fats: 14 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Proteins: 11 g