Caprese Salad Is Summer on a Plate

White balsamic vinegar will let the colors of this salad pop.

Basil dressing is a must. Antonis Achilleos/TNS

The basil dressing packs a punch in this caprese salad with cherry tomatoes. Dark balsamic vinegar is traditional, but to make the color pop, white balsamic vinegar can be used in its place.

Caprese Salad With Cherry Tomatoes

Active Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes

Serves 6

• 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1 clove garlic
• 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 (8-ounce) container fresh mozzarella cheese pearls

Place basil, oil, vinegar, salt, crushed red pepper, and garlic in a mini food processor or blender; process until combined, about 1 minute.