What to Serve with Caprese Salad: 35+ Perfect Pairings

Wondering what to serve with Caprese salad? You’re in the right place! This Italian classic, with its simple yet vibrant flavors, is a versatile dish that can complement a wide range of foods.

Whether you’re planning a casual lunch or an elegant dinner, finding the perfect accompaniment to Caprese salad can elevate your meal from good to extraordinary.

In this guide, I’ll show delicious pairings that will make your Caprese salad shine and satisfy your taste buds.

Understanding Caprese Salad

Caprese Salad is a classic Italian dish known for its simple yet bold flavors. It traditionally features fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar.

Why Pair Caprese Salad with Other Dishes

• Creates a more substantial meal
• Balances flavors and textures
• Adds variety to your dining experience
• Allows for creative culinary combinations
• Enhances the overall enjoyment of your meal

Variations of Caprese Salad

While traditional Caprese salad is delightful, creative variations can add excitement to your menu. These adaptations maintain the essence of Caprese while offering new textures and serving options to suit various occasions. Popular Caprese salad variations include:

• Caprese skewers for easy serving
• Caprese pasta salad with cherry tomatoes
• Grilled Caprese with charred tomatoes
• Caprese sandwich with crusty bread
• Burrata Caprese using creamy burrata cheese instead of mozzarella

Main Course Pairings for Caprese Salad

When it comes to deciding what to serve with Caprese salad as a main course, the options are plentiful. I’ve experimented with various pairings over the years, and I’m excited to share some of my favorites with you.

Pasta Dishes

Pasta is a natural companion to Caprese salad, given their shared Italian heritage. Here are some pasta dishes that pair beautifully with Caprese:

• Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs: The hearty, savory flavors of this dish contrast nicely with the light, fresh Caprese. I love how the acidity of the tomatoes in the salad cuts through the richness of the meatballs.
• Fettuccine Alfredo: The creamy, indulgent nature of Alfredo sauce is balanced by the freshness of Caprese. It’s a combination that never fails to impress my dinner guests.
• Vegetarian Lasagna: Layers of pasta, vegetables, and cheese create a satisfying main course that complements the simplicity of Caprese salad. I often make this for my vegetarian friends.
• Pesto Pasta: The basil in both dishes creates a harmonious flavor profile. I find that the nuttiness of the pesto adds an extra dimension to the meal.
• Lemon Garlic Pasta: The bright, zesty flavors of this pasta dish echo the freshness of Caprese salad. It’s my go-to for a light summer dinner.

For more Italian pasta inspiration, check out our guide on what to serve with pesto pasta or explore delicious sides for spaghetti and meatballs.

Grilled Meats

Grilling adds a smoky flavor that contrasts beautifully with the fresh elements of Caprese salad. Here are some grilled options to consider:

• Chicken Breast: A simple grilled chicken breast seasoned with herbs is a lean protein option that doesn’t overpower the Caprese. I like to marinate the chicken in lemon and herbs for extra flavor.
• Steak: A juicy grilled steak, especially a flavorful cut like ribeye or sirloin, pairs wonderfully with Caprese. The richness of the meat is balanced by the lightness of the salad.
• Grilled Sausages: Italian sausages, in particular, complement Caprese salad nicely. The spices in the sausage add depth to the overall meal. I often grill a variety of sausages to give my guests options.

Seafood Options

Seafood can be an excellent choice to serve with Caprese salad, offering a light yet satisfying main course. Here are some of my favorite seafood pairings:

• Grilled Salmon: The rich, omega-3-packed salmon is beautifully offset by the fresh flavors of Caprese. I love to add a squeeze of lemon to tie the flavors together.
• Shrimp Scampi: Garlicky, buttery shrimp scampi is a delightful partner to Caprese salad. The contrast between the warm, savory shrimp and the cool, fresh salad is irresistible.
• Baked Cod: A mild, flaky fish-like cod allows the flavors of the Caprese to shine. I often bake it with a light herb crust for added texture.
• Seared Scallops: The delicate sweetness of scallops pairs beautifully with the fresh mozzarella and tomatoes in Caprese. It’s an elegant combination that never fails to impress.

Vegetarian Main Courses

For those looking for meatless options to serve with Caprese salad, consider these vegetarian main courses:

• Eggplant Parmesan: The rich, cheesy layers of eggplant Parmesan complement the fresh simplicity of Caprese. It’s a match made in Italian cuisine heaven!
• Stuffed Bell Peppers: I love to fill bell peppers with a mixture of quinoa, vegetables, and cheese. The varied textures work well alongside the smooth mozzarella and juicy tomatoes of the Caprese.
• Mushroom Risotto: The earthy flavors of mushroom risotto provide a satisfying contrast to the bright flavors of Caprese salad. It’s comfort food that doesn’t feel too heavy.

Remember, the key to a successful pairing is balance. You want your main course to complement the Caprese salad without overshadowing its delicate flavors. Experiment with these options and find your perfect combination!

Light Accompaniments for Caprese Salad

Sometimes, you might want to serve Caprese salad as the star of the show, with just a few light accompaniments to round out the meal. Here are some of my favorite lighter options that pair wonderfully with Caprese salad.

Bread and Crackers

Nothing beats the combination of crusty bread and Caprese salad. Here are some options I love:

• Focaccia: This Italian flatbread is a perfect match for Caprese. I love tearing off pieces to scoop up the tomatoes and mozzarella. The herbs in the bread complement the basil beautifully.
• Bruschetta: Toasted bread rubbed with garlic and drizzled with olive oil makes a great base for Caprese toppings. It’s like a deconstructed version of the salad!
• Garlic Bread: The pungent flavors of garlic bread contrast nicely with the fresh Caprese. I often make extra because it disappears so quickly at my dinner parties.
• Whole Grain Crackers: For a healthier option, whole grain crackers provide a nice crunch and nutty flavor that pairs well with the creamy mozzarella in Caprese salad.

For the perfect bruschetta experience, don’t miss our guides on best bread for bruschetta and what to serve with bruschetta.

Other Salads

While Caprese is a salad itself, pairing it with other salads can create a diverse and satisfying meal. Here are some complementary salads:

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds extra freshness and variety to your plate. I like to include some crunchy elements like cucumber or radish for texture.
• Arugula Salad: The peppery bite of arugula contrasts nicely with the mild flavors of Caprese. I often dress it with a lemon vinaigrette to brighten the flavors even more.
• Cucumber Salad: A cool, crisp cucumber salad is refreshing alongside Caprese. I make mine with thinly sliced cucumbers, red onion, and a light vinegar dressing.

Soups

Believe it or not, certain soups pair beautifully with Caprese salad, especially for a light lunch or dinner. Here are my top picks:

• Tomato Basil Soup: This classic soup echoes the flavors in Caprese salad. I love dunking pieces of mozzarella from the salad into the warm soup – it’s comfort food at its finest!
• Minestrone: This hearty Italian vegetable soup provides a nice contrast to the simplicity of Caprese. The variety of vegetables and beans makes for a satisfying meal.
• Gazpacho: In the height of summer, cold gazpacho is a refreshing partner to Caprese salad. The similar ingredients create a cohesive flavor profile that I find irresistible.

Looking for more comforting soup combinations? Discover what to serve with minestrone soup for more Italian-inspired meal ideas

Beverages to Serve with Caprese Salad

Choosing the right beverage to serve with Caprese salad can elevate your dining experience. Here are some options I’ve found to be particularly enjoyable:

1.  Wine Pairings:

• Red: A light-bodied red like Chianti or Pinot Noir complements the tomatoes without overpowering the delicate mozzarella.
• White: A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the fresh flavors of the salad.
• Rosé: A dry rosé is my personal favorite with Caprese, especially on a warm summer evening.

2. Non-Alcoholic Drinks:

•    Sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime
•    Iced tea with fresh mint
•    A refreshing cucumber-basil lemonade

3. Cocktails:

•  Aperol Spritz: This Italian cocktail pairs beautifully with Caprese.
•  Gin and Tonic: The herbal notes in gin complement the basil in the salad.

Remember, the best pairing is ultimately what you enjoy most. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect match!

Dessert Pairings for Caprese Salad

After enjoying a refreshing Caprese salad, you might be wondering what dessert would complement it best. In my experience, light and fruity desserts work wonderfully. Here are some of my favorite options:

Light Fruit-Based Desserts

• Lemon Sorbet: The tangy, icy freshness of lemon sorbet is a perfect palate cleanser after Caprese. I love how it echoes the bright flavors of the salad while providing a sweet finish.
• Fresh Berry Compote: A simple compote made with seasonal berries is a delightful follow-up to Caprese. The natural sweetness of the berries contrasts nicely with the savory salad.
• Grilled Peaches with Honey: In summer, I often grill peaches and drizzle them with honey. The caramelized fruit pairs beautifully with the fresh flavors of Caprese salad.

Italian-Inspired Sweets

• Tiramisu: This classic Italian dessert offers a creamy, coffee-flavored contrast to the light Caprese. I find the richness of tiramisu satisfying after a lighter meal.
• Panna Cotta: A silky smooth panna cotta, especially when flavored with vanilla or honey, is a subtle sweet ending that doesn’t overpower the lingering taste of Caprese.
• Affogato: For coffee lovers, an affogato (vanilla gelato “drowned” in espresso) is a simple yet sophisticated dessert that pairs well with the simplicity of Caprese.

Tips for Serving Caprese Salad

To make your Caprese salad truly shine, consider these serving tips:

Presentation Ideas

• Arrange the ingredients in a circular pattern on a large platter for a stunning visual effect.
• Use a variety of tomato colors for added visual appeal.
• Try a caprese skewer for a fun, portable version at parties.

Temperature Considerations

• Serve the mozzarella at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
• Chill the plates slightly to keep the salad fresh, especially on hot days.

Portion Sizes

• As an appetizer, plan for about 2-3 ounces of mozzarella per person.
• For a main course, increase the portion size and add some crusty bread on the side.

Remember, the key to a great Caprese salad is using the freshest ingredients possible. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different varieties of tomatoes or types of mozzarella to find your perfect combination!

Seasonal Variations: What to Serve with Caprese Salad Year-Round

While Caprese salad is often associated with summer, you can enjoy it year-round with some seasonal adjustments. Here’s how I like to adapt my Caprese pairings throughout the year:

• Summer Pairings: in summer, I love light, refreshing pairings. Grilled chicken or fish, chilled gazpacho, and a crisp white wine are my go-to choices. The freshness of in-season tomatoes really shines during this time.
• Fall Combinations: As the weather cools, I lean towards heartier companions like roasted vegetable pasta or a warm minestrone soup. A glass of Chianti complements the autumnal mood perfectly.
• Winter Warmers: In winter, I pair Caprese with comforting dishes like eggplant parmesan or a rich tomato basil soup. A bold red wine stands up well to these flavors.
• Spring Fresh Ideas: Spring calls for light, herbaceous pairings. I love serving Caprese with a lemon herb chicken or a fresh pea risotto. A crisp rosé wine captures the spirit of the season.

Here’s a quick reference table for seasonal Caprese pairings:

Dietary Considerations

When deciding what to serve with Caprese salad, it’s important to consider various dietary needs. Here are some options to ensure everyone can enjoy this delightful dish:

Gluten-free Options to Serve with Caprese Salad:

• Grilled chicken or fish
• Quinoa salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Gluten-free pasta dishes

For those following a gluten-free diet, I’ve found that focusing on naturally gluten-free proteins and vegetables is the easiest approach. A beautifully grilled piece of salmon or a colorful array of roasted vegetables can make for a satisfying meal alongside Caprese salad.

Vegan Alternatives to Traditional Caprese Salad:

• Use vegan mozzarella or sliced avocado in place of dairy cheese
• Try marinated tofu for a protein-rich alternative
• Experiment with different herbs like oregano or mint in addition to basil

I’ve served vegan Caprese to friends using sliced avocado instead of mozzarella, and it was a hit! The creamy texture of avocado works surprisingly well with the tomatoes and basil.

FAQs: Serving Caprese Salad

Are There Any Foods to Avoid Serving with Caprese Salad?

While personal taste varies, I generally avoid pairing Caprese with very spicy or heavily seasoned dishes, as they can overwhelm the subtle flavors of the salad.