Lemon Basil Caprese Salad

This Lemon Basil Caprese Salad puts a fun twist on the classic summer salad. Bright, citrusy lemon pairs perfectly with plump, juicy tomatoes, melt in your mouth mozzarella balls, fresh from the garden (or store) basil, and creamy dressing.

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a bright twist on the classic caprese salad

I like to think of caprese salads as the "business casual" of appetizers. If you're in charge of the salad, hosting or not, it's just fancy enough to impress while being casual and familiar enough for even the pickiest of eaters to dive right in!

This Lemon Basil Caprese Salad puts a fun twist on the classic summer salad by incorporating the bright, fresh, and citrusy flavor of lemon. It pairs perfectly with plump, juicy cherry tomatoes, melt in your mouth mozzarella balls, fresh from the garden (or store) basil, and creamy dressing. And it's served on a bed of greens to create more volume and leafy deliciousness.

Best of all? It's the type of recipe you barely need to follow. You can customize this caprese salad to your liking. Read on for tips & tricks to put your on twist on a summertime classic and elevate your salad game!

I really think you're going to like this one. 😉

This lemon basil caprese salad is full of fresh ingredients

Arugula: The bitterness of arugula pairs so well with the bright, fresh lemon flavor in this salad. However, you could use lettuce or spinach for your greens if you don't like arugula. 

Mozzarella Balls: This cheese tastes so refreshing. And the texture is so fun! They basically melt right in your mouth. 

Cherry Tomatoes: A caprese classic!

Avocado: A great & creamy healthy fat that shines in this salad.

Lemon: For fresh and bright flavor!

Basil Leaves: I highly recommend using fresh ones.

Shaved Parmesan: For a savory twist in this bright, citrusy salad. 

Lemon Basil Dressing: One of my favorite dressings from Litehouse!

Salt and Pepper: Add to taste to top off this caprese salad.

Kitchen equipment needed to make your lemon basil caprese salad

To whip up this delicious Lemon Basil Caprese Salad, you'll need a strainer, cutting board, knife, serving bowl, mixing spoon, measuring cups, and a zester.

How to make this Lemon Basil Caprese Salad

1. Wash all ingredients and pat dry. 
2. Using a knife, halve mozzarella balls into bite sized pieces. Chop and dice tomatoes and basil leaves. Slice the avocado.
3. Place arugula in a salad bowl. Add mozzarella pieces, tomatoes, basil, and avocado. 
4. Squeeze half of a lemon over the salad. Then, using a handheld zester, zest the lemon over the salad. 
5. Top with shaved parmesan and Lemon Basil Dressing.
6. Garnish with salt and pepper.
7. Eat up and enjoy! 

Spruce up your caprese salad

This salad is fabulous on its own, but there are plenty of ways to spruce it up, too!

• Seasonings: Try a combination of basil and mint or basil and dill to add more flavor profiles. Minced garlic would also be delicious!

• Add more vegetables: Summer squash, cucumbers, or broccoli would be great additions to this salad.

• Introduce a nut or seed: You can get great health benefits and crunchy texture by adding toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds.

• Nix the cheese: Dairy free? Add more avocado to make up for that creamy, melt in your mouth texture.

• Change up the dressing: Toss this salad in extra virgin olive oil or drizzle with a balsamic glaze. Pesto is also a great, classic option for caprese salad. 

Storing fresh basil

To keep your basil fresh, trim the stems and place them in a glass or jar of water, just like cut flowers. Loosely cover with a plastic bag and leave on the counter. Although certain herbs such as parsley and cilantro can be stored this way in the fridge, basil does better at room temperature.

Questions about your salad?

How should I store this salad?
This salad needs to be stored in the refrigerator after preparation. It’s best when served fresh and made in the summertime!

What should I pair this salad with?
I love pairing this salad with a protein like the Best Grilled Chicken, salmon, steak, or even chickpea pasta.

Do you have any tips for success?
How fresh your ingredients are will really make this dish shine. Try using homegrown basil, ripe cherry or heirloom tomatoes, etc. Also, prepare shortly before serving for best results.

Is this suitable for meal prep?
You can make this salad for meal prep, but I'd recommend storing the ingredients separately and assembling right before you plan to eat it.

Other salad recipes you might love

Grilled Vegetable Salad

Healthy Broccoli Salad

Cabbage Slaw Salad

Healthy Pesto Chicken Salad

Orzo Pasta Salad

I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. It’s my passion to create dishes that can be shared with others. Tell me something you loved, something that you think it might need, or just say hi!

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