Cupid’s Caprese Salad
Cupid’s caprese salad is the easiest little Valentine’s salad that looks fancy but takes minutes. Sliced grape tomatoes, heart-shaped mozzarella and fresh basil get tossed with olive oil, salt and pepper, then drizzled with balsamic glaze. This Valentine’s caprese salad is simple, fresh and honestly the cutest way to eat caprese.
Make it part of a Valentine’s spread with my White Chocolate M&M Fudge.
Why You’ll Love This Caprese Salad
- Ready in 10 minutes.
- Adorable heart-shaped mozzarella.
- Fresh, classic caprese flavor.
- Perfect for Valentine’s Day.
Ingredients for Cupid’s Caprese Salad
The Salad
Sliced grape tomatoes, heart-shaped mozzarella and fresh basil.
The Dressing
Olive oil, salt, black pepper and balsamic glaze.
Dietary note: This caprese salad is vegetarian and naturally gluten free.
How to Make Caprese Salad
Step 1: Cut the hearts
Use a small cookie cutter to slice the mozzarella into heart shapes.
Step 2: Toss
Toss the tomatoes, mozzarella and basil in a bowl.
Step 3: Season
Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
Step 4: Dress
Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze right before serving.
Carly’s Expert Tips
- Mix tomato colors for a prettier salad.
- No cookie cutter? Carve hearts with a small knife.
- Dress right before serving so it stays fresh.
- Use good olive oil for the best flavor.
Make It Your Own
- Burrata: Top with burrata instead.
- Strawberries: Add sliced strawberries.
- Pesto: Drizzle with pesto.
- Skewers: Thread onto toothpicks for appetizers.
Make-Ahead and Meal Prep: Cut the mozzarella hearts and slice the tomatoes up to 1 day ahead. Toss and dress right before serving.
What to Serve With Caprese Salad
Serve with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta for a cozy date night dinner.
Storing and Reheating
This salad is best served fresh.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 1 day.
What People Ask About Caprese Salad
Can I make caprese salad ahead?
Prep the parts ahead and dress it right before serving.
What mozzarella is best?
Fresh mozzarella slices or pearls.
What is balsamic glaze?
A thick, sweet reduction of balsamic vinegar.
Can I use cherry tomatoes?
Yes. Cherry or grape tomatoes work.
Cupid’s Caprese Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Use a cookie cutter to slice mozzarella into heart shapes.
- Toss the sliced grape tomatoes, heart-shaped mozzarella, and fresh basil in a bowl.
- Top with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
- For a more vibrant presentation, use a mix of red, yellow, and orange grape tomatoes.
- If you don’t have a heart-shaped cookie cutter, you can use a knife to carefully carve the mozzarella into heart shapes.
- Serve immediately for the freshest taste and best presentation.
