Name: Watermelon Caprese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 small watermelon, cut into 1/2″-thick squares (about 3″ x 3″); 1 mozzarella ball, sliced into 1/2″-thick slices; 2 tbsp thinly sliced fresh basil; Flaky sea salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Extra-virgin olive oil, for serving; Balsamic glaze, for serving

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This Watermelon Caprese is a refreshing twist on the classic Italian salad, perfect for warm days. Combining juicy watermelon with creamy mozzarella and fresh basil, it’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s easy to prepare.

The dish shows several slices of white mozzarella cheese, each topped with a rectangular piece of bright red watermelon, and a single fresh green basil leaf placed between the two layers. The cheese has a smooth, firm texture, while the watermelon looks juicy with a slightly grainy surface. There are small drops of dark balsamic glaze drizzled over the cheese, watermelon, and basil, along with a light sprinkling of cracked black pepper. All the ingredients are arranged closely together on a white plate that sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 small watermelon, cut into 1/2″-thick squares (about 3″ x 3″)
1 mozzarella ball, sliced into 1/2″-thick slices

2 tbsp. thinly sliced fresh basil
Flaky sea salt

Freshly ground black pepper
Extra-virgin olive oil, for serving

Balsamic glaze, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: On a serving platter, arrange alternating slices of watermelon and mozzarella in an overlapping pattern.
Step 2: Sprinkle the thinly sliced fresh basil evenly over the top, then season with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Drizzle extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze over the arranged slices just before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use ripe, seedless watermelon for the best texture and sweetness.
For extra flavor, add a few fresh mint leaves or a squeeze of lime juice.

Try substituting burrata for mozzarella for a creamier texture.
Make the balsamic glaze at home by simmering balsamic vinegar until thickened, or purchase pre-made for convenience.

Storage

This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If needed, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Because of the watermelon’s high water content, it may release juice, so drain any excess liquid before serving again. Serve chilled for the best experience, but avoid reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows a tall stack of alternating layers of red watermelon and white feta cheese, totaling six layers, starting with watermelon at the bottom. Small green basil leaves are placed between some layers, with drops of golden olive oil and dark balsamic glaze drizzled over the stack, making it shiny. The tower sits on a white plate on a white marbled surface, with some cracked black pepper and basil leaves scattered around. The background is a plain light blue-gray color. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare Watermelon Caprese in advance?

It’s best to assemble this salad just before serving to maintain the freshness and texture of the watermelon and mozzarella. If preparing in advance, keep the ingredients separate and combine them shortly before eating.

What can I use if I don’t have balsamic glaze?

If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can drizzle some good quality balsamic vinegar and a little honey or sugar on the salad to mimic the sweet tangy flavor of the glaze.