19 Caprese Recipes That Make Dinner Easy
Tomato, mozzarella, and basil make a strong base that easily shifts from salads to sandwiches, pasta, and even warm baked dishes. This collection takes that core combo and spins it into meal prep options, air fryer dinners, and colorful party bites. With additions like chicken, burrata, and even blueberries or peaches, these ideas show how far Caprese can go. From fresh to melty, thereโs something here for every craving and time of day.
Burrata Caprese with Peaches
Would you like to save this?
Sweet peach slices add a juicy twist to the creamy burrata and tomato base. Basil and a drizzle of balsamic round it out. Itโs sweet, salty, and fresh all at once. Works especially well as a summer appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Burrata Caprese with Peaches
Caprese Flatbread
Flatbread is topped with sliced tomato, mozzarella, and basil, then baked until bubbly. Balsamic reduction or pesto adds a finishing touch. Itโs crisp, melty, and satisfying. Great as an appetizer or light meal.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Flatbread
Caprese Pesto Pasta Salad
This twist adds basil pesto to the mix, coating the pasta in a bold, herby sauce. Mozzarella and tomatoes fold in for texture and contrast. It holds up well chilled or room temperature. A smart choice for gatherings or lunchboxes.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Pasta Salad
Grilled Caprese Eggplant Sandwich
Grilled eggplant rounds replace meat, stacked with tomato and mozzarella on hearty bread. The eggplant adds a smoky depth that complements the creamy cheese. Itโs a strong vegetarian take that doesnโt feel like a swap. Tasty warm or room temp.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Caprese Eggplant Sandwich
Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad
This salad brings together leafy greens, sliced chicken, tomato, and mozzarella. A drizzle of balsamic dressing ties it all together. Itโs hearty without feeling heavy. A balanced option that still has strong Caprese flavor.
Get the Recipe: Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad
Meal Prep Caprese Chicken
This version is made in advance with cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella in individual containers. Basil and balsamic vinaigrette go on just before eating. Itโs balanced, easy to pack, and ready when you are. Great for work lunches.
Get the Recipe: Meal Prep Caprese Chicken
Caprese Pasta Salad
Cooked pasta mixes with halved tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil. A light vinaigrette brings it together without overpowering. Serve it cold for an easy make-ahead meal.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pasta Salad
Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich
Grilled chicken adds a hearty layer beneath the mozzarella and tomato. Everything goes onto toasted bread or ciabatta, and it can be served warm or cold. A little pesto or glaze goes a long way. It hits every texture and flavor note.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich
Burrata Caprese
Burrata brings extra richness to this dish, its soft center spilling out over tomatoes and basil. A little olive oil and salt is all it needs. It feels extra creamy without being heavy. Serve it with bread or eat it straight from the plate.
Get the Recipe: Burrata Caprese
10 Minute Baked Caprese Dip
This warm dip layers mozzarella and tomato, baked just until the cheese is melted. Itโs topped with basil right before serving. Bread, crackers, or veggies make great dippers. A solid option when you need something quick and crowd-pleasing.
Get the Recipe: 10 Minute Baked Caprese Dip
Caprese Chicken Recipe
This baked version layers seasoned chicken with tomato and mozzarella, then finishes with basil and glaze. Everything cooks together for easy cleanup. Itโs juicy, flavorful, and great with pasta or salad. A straight-up dinner option with no extras needed.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Chicken Recipe
Heirloom Caprese Salad
Slices of heirloom tomatoes bring a variety of color and flavor to this fresh salad. Mozzarella and basil keep it grounded. A pinch of salt and olive oil finish it off. Visually stunning and easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Heirloom Caprese Salad
Air Fryer Caprese Chicken
Chicken breasts are topped with sliced tomato and mozzarella, then air-fried until the cheese bubbles. Fresh basil and balsamic glaze finish it off. Itโs quick and hands-off, ideal for weeknights. Crisp edges and melty cheese make it especially satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Caprese Chicken
Caprese Panini
Mozzarella, tomato, and basil are pressed between crispy slices of bread until warm and melty. A swipe of pesto or balsamic adds depth. Itโs crisp on the outside and gooey inside. Great as a quick lunch or cozy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Panini
Caprese Skewers
Mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves are threaded onto skewers for an easy party snack. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds brightness. Theyโre quick to make and easy to grab. A reliable no-cook option.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Skewers
Caprese Stuffed Avocado
Halved avocados are filled with chopped tomato, mozzarella, and basil. Balsamic glaze adds a tangy note. No cooking needed, and it feels rich and fresh. A satisfying, low-effort option.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Stuffed Avocado
Mason Jar Caprese Pasta Salad
The layered mason jar format makes this easy to store and serve. Pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil stack up with vinaigrette at the bottom. Shake before eating for full flavor.
Get the Recipe: Mason Jar Caprese Pasta Salad
Blueberry Tomato Caprese
Blueberries add a fruity burst alongside the usual tomato and mozzarella. It sounds unusual, but the sweetness works with the acidity of the tomato. Basil and balsamic hold it all together. A twist for when you want something a little playful.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Tomato Caprese
Chicken Caprese Salad
Grilled or pan-cooked chicken is sliced and layered with tomato, mozzarella, and basil on a bed of greens. The combo of warm protein and cool veggies makes it satisfying. Balsamic or olive oil dressing keeps things light. Simple but flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caprese Salad