This sweet and simple tomato peach caprese salad takes all the flavors of summer and puts them in a bowl. Sweet peaches paired with heirloom tomatoes, red onion, fresh mozzarella, and basil tossed in a champagne vinaigrette.
One of the things I love most about living in North Carolina is all the access to fresh summer fruit the second it comes into season.
Peaches are just one of the many delicious fruit and veggies we start getting the second they ripen.
An older lady sets up shop at the corner of our very small town (my town only has a gas station that doesn’t take credit cards and one small post office) and sells fresh peaches right from the bed of her truck.
Every single peach I have bought from her is deliciously sweet and perfectly ripe.
Sometimes if you’re lucky she’ll have both yellow and white peaches.
For this salad, I used the traditional yellow peach that paired perfectly with fresh ripe cherry tomatoes, basil from my garden, and salty fresh mozzarella cheese. It’s the perfect summer salad.
I like to eat it as a side along with grilled chicken but it’s also great as an entree salad. Especially if you’re looking for something a little lighter.
The flavor is light, bright, and perfectly summer.
Table of Contents
What is a traditional caprese salad?
A traditional caprese salad simply contains fresh tomato, mozzarella, basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
This salad originated in Italy and it is actually believed that the green, white, and red elements within this dish are in honor of the Italian flag.
Why put peaches into a caprese salad?
It’s peach season, and this is a simple summer twist on a classic we love!
Peaches provide just the perfect bite of sweetness to compliment the savory salty flavor of the mozzarella and the acidity of the tomatoes and vinaigrette.
What is fresh mozzarella and where can I find it?
You will be able to find fresh mozzarella near the deli area of your grocery store with fresh cheeses.
Fresh mozzarella is typically packaged in plastic containers, submerged in liquid, this is to help the mozzarella both retain its moisture and shape to give the most authentic flavor.
What is champagne vinegar? Where can I find it?
Champagne vinegar is exactly what it sounds like, vinegar derived from champagne, it has a more mild flavor and is less acidic than your typical vinegar, which will give a light crisp flavor to your dressing.
You will most likely find champagne vinegar near the cooking oils or in the condiment aisle near the dressings and sauces.
What can I substitute for champagne vinegar?
If you’re not able to get ahold of champagne vinegar, don’t worry!
You’ll be able to achieve a similar effect using apple cider vinegar, red wine vinegar, or white wine vinegar in its place.
Is it important to use fresh basil?
Yes, fresh basil is absolutely key here as it delivers the bright flavor of summery freshness we are looking for!
Luckily, basil is commonly found in the produce section of your grocery store, near the greens or the tomatoes.
How to serve tomato peach caprese salad?
Tomato peach caprese salad is such a versatile dish, the peach adds an exciting element that makes this salad unique.
I would typically serve this as a side paired with grilled meat (try my chili mango lime grilled chicken thighs) but it would also make a lovely light lunch or even a great summer barbecue dish!
How to store tomato peach caprese salad?
Store in an airtight container and enjoy again within 2 to 3 days.
Love this tomato peach caprese salad?
Why not try a few of my other delicious salads!
- Grilled Sourdough Panzanella Salad
- Roasted Vegetable Tortellini Salad
- Lentil Couscous Goat Cheese Salad
- Cantaloupe Prosciutto Caprese Salad
- Grilled Peach Burrata Salad
- Watermelon Greek Salad
Tomato Peach Caprese Salad
Ingredients
For salad:
- 4 cups halved cherry tomatoes
- 4 ripe peaches pitted and sliced
- 1 small red onion thinly sliced
- 12 ounces fresh small mozzarella balls drained
- 1/4 cup packed fresh basil leaves
For vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons champagne vinegar
- Kosher salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
For salad:
- Add all salad ingredients to a salad bowl and toss to combine.
For vinaigrette:
- Add olive oil, vinegar, kosher salt, and black pepper to a small bowl and whisk vigorously until combined and emulsified.
- Pour over salad and toss to combine.
- Taste, and if needed, season with more kosher salt and black pepper.