A Caprese Tower is a beautifully stacked version of the classic Caprese salad, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a light, refreshing dish. By layering thick slices of ripe tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, then finishing with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and olive oil, I get a dish that looks gourmet but is incredibly easy to assemble. Whether I’m hosting a dinner party or craving something fresh and quick, this tower is a go-to favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this Caprese Tower turns simple, wholesome ingredients into something visually stunning and delicious. It’s elegant enough to serve at gatherings but easy enough for a quick weeknight appetizer or side. With no cooking involved, it comes together in just minutes, making it ideal for summer days or when I want to keep things light and fresh. Plus, it’s naturally vegetarian and gluten-free.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
Fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional: toothpicks or skewers for stacking
Directions
I start by placing a slice of tomato on a serving plate.
Then, I layer a slice of mozzarella and a fresh basil leaf on top.
I repeat these layers—tomato, mozzarella, basil—until I’ve created a tall, balanced stack.
Next, I drizzle the tower with extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze.
I season it with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
For stability, especially when serving guests, I insert a toothpick or skewer through the center of each tower.
I serve it immediately to enjoy the full burst of freshness.
Servings and timing
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Calories: 180 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes add a thin slice of avocado between the layers for extra creaminess.
For a bit of crunch, I top the tower with toasted pine nuts or crushed walnuts.
If I want more bite, I use heirloom cherry tomatoes and make mini Caprese towers on cocktail sticks.
Swapping the mozzarella for burrata gives it a richer, more indulgent feel.
For a sweeter finish, I use a honey-balsamic glaze instead of regular balsamic.
Storage/Reheating
I always recommend serving Caprese Towers fresh, as the tomatoes and mozzarella can release water and become soggy if stored. However, if I need to prep ahead, I store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. I assemble them just before serving. Reheating isn’t necessary or recommended, as this dish is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
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FAQs
How do I keep the Caprese Tower from toppling over?
I use toothpicks or small skewers to hold everything in place. Choosing firm, ripe tomatoes and even mozzarella slices also helps keep the tower steady.
Can I make this ahead of time?
I can slice the ingredients ahead and store them separately, but I assemble the towers just before serving to keep them looking fresh and prevent sogginess.
What’s the best type of mozzarella to use?
I prefer fresh mozzarella balls (like bocconcini or ciliegine) sliced thick. They have the perfect creamy texture for layering.
Is there a substitute for balsamic glaze?
If I don’t have balsamic glaze, I reduce regular balsamic vinegar over low heat until it thickens, or I simply drizzle aged balsamic vinegar for a similar flavor.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes! I use a plant-based mozzarella alternative and make sure the balsamic glaze doesn’t contain honey or other animal products.
Conclusion
The Caprese Tower is proof that beautiful, delicious dishes don’t need to be complicated. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, I can build a visually striking and flavor-packed appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether I’m trying to impress guests or just treat myself, this is one recipe I come back to time and time again.
📖 Recipe:
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Caprese Tower
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A Caprese Tower is an elegant and visually stunning twist on the classic Caprese salad, featuring stacked layers of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and olive oil. Perfect as a quick appetizer or light side dish.
Ingredients
2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
Fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional: toothpicks or skewers for stacking
Instructions
- Place a slice of tomato on a serving plate.
- Layer a slice of mozzarella and a fresh basil leaf on top.
- Repeat layers—tomato, mozzarella, basil—until a tall, balanced stack is formed.
- Drizzle the tower with extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze.
- Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Insert a toothpick or skewer through the center of the tower for stability.
- Serve immediately to enjoy its fresh flavors.
Notes
Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Use firm, ripe tomatoes and evenly sliced mozzarella for better stability.
To make it vegan, use plant-based mozzarella and ensure the balsamic glaze is vegan-friendly.
Store components separately if prepping ahead; assemble just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tower
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
