Mason Jar Caprese Salad (Printable)

Fresh cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil layered in jars with tangy balsamic dressing for easy serving.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables & Herbs

01 - 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
02 - 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained
03 - 1 cup fresh basil leaves

→ Dressing

04 - 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
05 - 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar
06 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

# How to Make It:

01 - In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic glaze or vinegar, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined.
02 - Divide the dressing evenly among four clean pint-sized (16 oz) mason jars, pouring it into the bottom of each jar.
03 - Layer the cherry tomato halves on top of the dressing in each jar.
04 - Add the fresh mozzarella balls as the next layer in each jar.
05 - Finish with a layer of fresh basil leaves on top of the mozzarella.
06 - Seal the jars tightly with lids and refrigerate until ready to serve.
07 - When serving, shake the jar gently to distribute the dressing, or pour contents onto a plate and toss gently.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Ready in just 15 minutes with no cooking required
  • Perfectly portable and mess-free for picnics, work lunches, or road trips
  • Beautiful layered presentation that looks as good as it tastes
  • Vegetarian and gluten-free, suitable for various dietary preferences
  • Uses simple, fresh ingredients that highlight quality over complexity
  • The dressing-on-the-bottom technique keeps everything crisp until serving
02 -
  • Use pint-sized (16 oz) mason jars with tight-sealing lids to prevent leaks during transport
  • Drain the mozzarella thoroughly to avoid excess liquid diluting the dressing
  • Cut cherry tomatoes as close to assembly time as possible to maintain their firmness
  • Layer ingredients in the exact order specified—dressing first is crucial for freshness
  • Best enjoyed the same day, but can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours
  • Always check labels if using pre-made balsamic glaze or packaged mozzarella for potential allergens
  • Shake gently rather than vigorously to avoid crushing the delicate ingredients
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