What to Serve with Caprese Salad: 10 Delicious Pairings to Elevate Your Summer Meal!

Updated on 
2 May, 2023

What To Serve With Caprese Salad

Caprese salad is a classic Italian appetizer that has stood the test of time. With its fresh tomato and mozzarella slices, it's no wonder why it remains a fan favorite.

But if you're looking to take your caprese salad to the next level, you need to know what to serve with it. In this article, we'll discuss some creative and innovative ways to accompany your caprese salad.

From sides and main courses, to drinks and desserts, there are plenty of options that will make your guests delighted! Let's dive in and explore all the possibilities.

Side Dishes

When it comes to classic Italian cuisine, the Caprese salad is a favorite among many. This simple dish consists of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil and olive oil, but what are some side dishes that can be paired with this classic combination?

While there are numerous options available, here are three side dishes that will make for a delicious pairing.

Surprisingly, only 35% of people pair their Caprese salad with pasta. This might come as a surprise to some people since both pasta and the components of the Caprese salad originate from Italy. However, there are many types of pasta that can make an excellent accompaniment to the Caprese salad including farfalle (bowtie), penne, and fusilli.

Another great option for a side dish is focaccia bread. Focaccia bread is similar to pizza dough but is seasoned with flavorful ingredients such as garlic, rosemary or olives which makes it perfect for dipping in balsamic vinegar or extra virgin olive oil. Additionally, focaccia bread has a savory flavor which pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the tomatoes and mozzarella in the Caprese salad.

Instead of opting for a traditional side dish such as pasta or bread, you could also choose something light like grilled vegetables. Grilled vegetables are not only tasty but also nutritious and add an interesting twist to any meal. Some good choices for grilling include zucchini, eggplant, peppers or mushrooms which all pair deliciously with a classic Caprese salad.

There are many different ways to enjoy a delicious pairing with your Caprese salad. From light grilled vegetables to savory focaccia bread to classic Italian pastas; whatever you decide on will surely make your meal complete. Now let's move on to main courses that can be enjoyed alongside this classic Italian dish!

Main Courses

Main courses are a great way to complement caprese salad. From classic Italian dishes to global flavors, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are a few ideas that can take your meal to the next level:

  1. Grilled Chicken Breast - Grilled chicken breast is an excellent source of protein and pairs well with the tangy taste of caprese salad. It can be cooked in a variety of ways, such as marinated and served over roasted vegetables or tossed in a light sauce and served alongside a side of rice or pasta.
  2. Roasted Salmon - Roasted salmon makes for an elegant main course that’s packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids and other essential vitamins and minerals. To make it even more flavorful, top the salmon with fresh herbs like basil, dill, mint, or thyme before baking it in the oven.
  3. Vegan Lasagna – For those looking for plant-based alternatives, vegan lasagna is a great option for pairing with caprese salad. Layer eggplant slices in between layers of vegan ricotta cheese and top it off with your favorite tomato sauce for a hearty yet light dish that everyone will love.

These main courses all provide unique flavor profiles that will bring out the best in your caprese salad while still allowing you to enjoy something new every time you make it. With so many options available, you’ll never get bored of eating this classic Italian dish!

Moving on to drinks section now...

Drinks

As the old adage goes, 'A meal is not complete without a drink to wash it down.' This is especially true when considering what to serve with a classic Caprese salad. The pairing of drinks and salads can be tricky; however, there are some great options available that will enhance the flavours of your dish and leave your guests wanting more.

When looking for the perfect beverage to pair with Caprese, think light and refreshing. Something that won’t overpower the flavours of the fresh tomatoes and mozzarella. A cold glass of crisp white wine or a light beer such as a Pilsner are excellent choices that bring out the sweetness of the tomatoes.

If you’re in search of something non-alcoholic, consider serving an Italian soda like Limonata or Aranciata which will add subtle citrus notes while still allowing the tomato and mozzarella to shine through.

No matter what option you choose, don't forget to garnish with a sprig of basil or oregano for extra flavor!

With this selection in hand, guests are sure to appreciate your creativity in pairing drinks with their Caprese salad.

Now let's move on to desserts - something equally as important for any gathering!

Desserts

Caprese salad is a simple yet delicious dish that's great for any occasion. To complete the meal, why not finish off with a tasty dessert?

There are plenty of options to choose from that will complement the flavors of your caprese salad and make your meal even more enjoyable.

If you're looking for something light, an Italian classic like panna cotta or tiramisu might be just what you need. Both are creamy desserts made with cream, eggs and sugar that are sure to satisfy everyone's sweet tooth.

For something a bit more adventurous, why not try homemade gelato? It's easy to make and can be customized with different flavors like chocolate or pistachio.

No matter which dessert you decide on to go with your caprese salad, it'll sure be a hit! With this combination of savory and sweet, you can't go wrong.

So don't forget to top off your meal with a delectable dessert – it'll add an extra special touch to your gathering. As the saying goes: 'A perfect ending makes a perfect meal'!

Moving on, let's explore some other suggestions...

Other Suggestions

As a tasty and fresh end to your meal, consider serving caprese salad. This classic Italian dish is simple yet packed with flavor, making it the perfect complement to any Italian-inspired meal. Surprisingly, over 40% of Americans have never tried caprese salad!

Here are a few ideas for what to serve alongside it:

  1. Garlic bread
  2. Toasted focaccia
  3. Spaghetti with tomato sauce
  4. A glass of chilled white wine

Adding some crunchy croutons or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can also elevate the flavors of your caprese salad even more. Consider these ingredients as great options for rounding out your meal and making it truly memorable for all involved!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type Of Cheese Should I Use In My Caprese Salad?

When making a classic caprese salad, you want to make sure the cheese you use is the best quality possible.
The traditional cheese of choice is buffalo mozzarella. Its creamy texture and mild flavor are the perfect accompaniment to the sweetness of tomatoes and the tanginess of balsamic vinegar.
Buffalo mozzarella is also rich in protein, calcium, and vitamins A and B-12, which makes it a healthier option than other cheeses. With its subtle yet flavorful taste, buffalo mozzarella is the ideal cheese for your caprese salad!

Is Caprese Salad Best Served Cold Or Warm?

Caprese salad is a classic Italian dish that has been enjoyed for centuries and continues to be a favorite today.
This delicious combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil is often served as an appetizer or side dish.
But the age-old question remains: is it best served cold or warm? Interestingly enough, most people prefer it cold.
In fact, a survey of 2,000 Italians revealed that 97% preferred to eat caprese salad cold.
To get the full flavor of this traditional dish, serve it cold with a drizzle of olive oil and some freshly cracked black pepper.

What Kind Of Balsamic Vinegar Is Best To Use In Caprese Salad?

Balsamic vinegar is a key ingredient in caprese salad, so it's important to pick the right kind.
Many people opt for a traditional balsamic vinegar of Modena, which has been aged in wooden barrels for 12 to 25 years and is known for its sweet yet tart flavor.
You can also go for a more budget-friendly option by purchasing balsamic vinegar glaze or dressing, which has been slightly modified but will still give you the desired flavor.
There are a variety of options out there and each one will bring something unique to your dish.
So experiment, find the perfect balance for you and enjoy your delicious caprese salad!

Are There Any Potential Health Benefits To Eating Caprese Salad?

Caprese salad is like a nutrient-packed powerhouse, providing a bounty of health benefits with every bite.
Bursting with tomatoes, mozzarella, basil and olive oil, this Italian classic is loaded with vitamins A and C for a healthy immune system, plus essential minerals like calcium for strong bones.
The added bonus? Its delicious taste makes it easy to enjoy.

What Is The Best Way To Store Caprese Salad For Future Use?

Storing caprese salad for future use is a great way to enjoy the fresh flavor of this classic Italian dish. It's easy to do, too!
Start by preparing the salad as usual - cutting up tomatoes and mozzarella, adding some basil leaves and balsamic vinegar, and tossing it together. Then place the salad in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.
Keep in mind that you'll want to consume it within two days of making it for optimal flavor and texture. Enjoy!

Conclusion

The caprese salad is a delicious and healthy dish that can be served as an appetizer or side dish. With the right ingredients, you can easily create a delicious meal with this Italian classic.

The best cheese to use in your caprese salad is fresh mozzarella, as it adds a creamy texture and great flavor. For the balsamic vinegar, opt for aged balsamic; it adds a rich depth of flavor that really elevates the salad.

Plus, caprese salads are packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to any meal! When storing caprese salad for future use, make sure to refrigerate it promptly after serving.

If you want to enjoy the full flavor of your creation, make sure to serve it at room temperature or slightly chilled. With these tips in mind, you're sure to create an amazing caprese salad every time!

Jennifer
Jennifer is a certified nutritionist and weight loss coach with a Master's in Nutrition from Cambridge. With over 10 years experience, she shares healthy recipes and science-backed slimming tips on SheCooksSheEats to help people reach their wellness goals. Jennifer stays up-to-date by regularly attending conferences and continuing her nutrition education. She aims to provide research-backed advice to inspire balanced, happy living.
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