Peach Caprese Salad

Peak-season produce rarely needs anything more to enhance its perfect flavors. A classic Caprese salad is a fine example of fresh seasonal ingredients showcased minimally and perfectly: juicy ripe tomatoes, earthy basil and buttery mozzarella with just a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of flaky salt. Sweet peach slices join the party for an ultra-bright and summery flavor in this peach Caprese salad.

The key to a peach and tomato Caprese salad is using quality ingredients. Garden-ripe tomatoes and just-picked peaches are the standards; make sure they’re firm, fresh and ripe. Creamy mozzarella (not the shredded or block kind) contrasts beautifully with the fruit. Fresh unbruised basil, the best olive oil and balsamic vinegar tie everything together. Our recipe for Caprese salad with peaches stands on its own or as a perfect summer side dish with your favorite barbecue recipes.

Peach Caprese Salad Ingredients

• Peaches: There are several types of peaches to choose from, especially during the peak summer season at the farmers market. No matter the variety you land on—freestone, cling-stone, yellow, white or donut—make sure your fruits are fresh without any blemishes. No need to peel these, but do wash them well before slicing.
• Heirloom tomatoes: Pick any heirloom tomatoes with a bright, beautiful color and personality. Slice these in even thickness. Bought too many at the farmers market (don’t we all)? Use your leftover fruits in any number of heirloom tomato recipes.
• Mozzarella cheese: You want a ball of fresh mozzarella here, not shredded or pre-sliced. Go with an Italian, high-quality cheese if you can find it, as the creamy silkiness will shine in this salad. You can also use smaller mozzarella balls or the ultra-creamy burrata.
• Fresh basil: Is basil the herb of summer? Its vibrant color and sweet-spicy flavor sing of warm-weather foods. Choose from several types of basil at the store or farmers market, or even pick a plant from the garden center to bring home and grow. PS: The best way to store basil isn’t in the refrigerator (a common fresh basil mistake). Treat basil as you would flowers and set it in a glass jar or vase with water.
• Olive oil: The oil plays a vital role in this Caprese salad with peaches, giving all the ingredients a lovely shine and sheen. It should also contribute a deep flavor, ranging from grassy to buttery depending on the varietal oil you choose. A high quality extra virgin olive oil is better than regular olive oil here.
• Balsamic vinegar: Balsamic vinegar can range from thin and vinegary to thick and syrupy. Choose the style that suits your taste buds (tangy versus sweet), as you’ll definitely taste the balsamic in every bite.
• Seasoning: A little sea salt and freshly ground pepper help the flavors pop. A flaky sea salt like Maldon is perfect for a fresh peach and tomato Caprese salad.

Directions

Step 1: Arrange the salad

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Layer the peaches, tomatoes, mozzarella cheese and basil leaves on a plate or platter.

Editor’s Tip: To make this salad as pretty as a summer bouquet, slice your tomatoes, peaches and mozzarella into similar-sized rounds and layer them in alternate colors with the basil leaves.

Step 2: Dress the salad

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Drizzle the salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Sprinkle it with sea salt and pepper.

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Peach Caprese Salad Variations

• Add sliced avocado: Avocado is a dream paired with peaches and any tomato mozzarella salad, lending a creamy sweetness that sings of summer.
• Make salad skewers: Transform your Caprese salad with peaches into Caprese skewers. Simply cut the cheese, peaches and tomatoes into 1/2-inch cubes, then skewer the ingredients, drizzle and season. It’s barbecue party-ready!
• Include more fruits: Summer berries are always a welcome pairing with peaches. Try this peach and tomato Caprese salad as directed, adding fresh blueberries to the composed salad for pops of bright color and rich berry flavor.

How to Store Peach Caprese Salad

Once your Caprese salad with peaches is assembled and dressed, it will slowly turn wet and soggy, so it’s best to enjoy it freshly made.

How long does a peach Caprese salad last?

While your Caprese salad should be enjoyed immediately, you can technically store it in the fridge for up to three days, though it will lose its fresh appeal. Wrap it tightly or transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge.

Can you make peach Caprese salad ahead of time?

If you want to make your salad ahead, you can slice and prep all the ingredients, but keep them in separate containers in the fridge. Use your ingredients for a fresh salad within three days of preparing them.

Peach Caprese Salad Tips

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Do you need to peel peaches for a Caprese salad?

No, you do not need to peel your peaches for a Caprese salad—or almost any other salad, for that matter. It’s perfectly safe to eat peach skin, and the skins add a subtle crispness to each bite and an extra pop of orange color. But if you prefer your fruits without the skin, peel them!

What can you serve with a peach Caprese salad?

Since this salad is essentially summertime on a plate, we recommend pairing it with other warm-weather foods like your favorite grilled meats, grilled vegetables, a grain salad or pilaf. Add refreshing fruit-infused water and other fruity drinks for a complete summer feast.