Caprese Tower
- tastewithoutaface
- May 6
- 2 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
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Total Cook Time: ~15 minutes | Level of Difficulty: Easy
Elevate the classic Caprese salad into a stunning vertical presentation with this Caprese Tower. Layers of ripe tomato, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil stack beautifully for an eye-catching appetizer or light entrée—perfect for dinner parties, brunch, or anytime you want a show-stopping starter.
Ingredients (serves 4)
3 large ripe tomatoes (heirloom or vine-ripe), sliced into ½″ rounds
12 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced into ½″ rounds (about the same diameter as the tomatoes)
1 cup fresh basil leaves, whole
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 Tbsp balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Ingredient Alternatives
Tomatoes: Use yellow or green heirloom varieties for color contrast, or swap in thick slices of roasted red peppers.
Mozzarella: Choose burrata for a creamy center, or use bocconcini for bite-sized stacks on toothpicks.
Basil: Swap with fresh mint or baby arugula for a different herbal note.
Glaze: Replace balsamic glaze with a drizzle of honey-thyme reduction or pomegranate molasses.
Step 1: Prep & Slice
Wash and pat dry tomatoes and basil.
Slice tomatoes and mozzarella into even rounds so layers stack neatly.
Tip Alert: Even Slices: A sharp serrated knife prevents squashing tomatoes and gives clean cuts.
Step 2: Assemble the Towers
On each of four plates, place a tomato slice as the base.
Top with a mozzarella slice, then a basil leaf.
Repeat (tomato → mozzarella → basil) until you have 3–4 layers, finishing with a basil leaf or small basil sprig.
Tip Alert: Stability: If your layers slip, insert a small decorative skewer through the center to hold each tower upright.
Step 3: Dress & Finish
Drizzle each tower with olive oil, then a zigzag of balsamic glaze.
Season lightly with sea salt and cracked pepper.
Tip Alert: Chill Plates: Serve on chilled plates to keep towers crisp and tomatoes cool.
Step 4: Serve Immediately00
These towers are best enjoyed fresh—serve within 10 minutes of assembling.
Beverage Pairings
Prosecco: Light bubbles and citrus notes brighten the fresh flavors.
Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp acidity and herbaceous aromas complement tomato and basil.
Aperol Spritz: A touch of bitter orange balances the rich mozzarella.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing, non-alcoholic palate cleanser.
This Caprese Tower turns a simple salad into a centerpiece-worthy creation. With just a few ingredients and no cooking required, it’s proof that beautiful, flavorful food can be effortless. Give it a try at your next gathering—and watch your guests’ eyes light up!
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