Mason Jar Caprese Fresh (Print)

Layered cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with balsamic and olive oil in a portable jar.

# Components:

→ Vegetables & Herbs

01 - 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
02 - 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained
03 - 1 cup fresh basil leaves

→ Dressing

04 - 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
05 - 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar
06 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

# Directions:

01 - In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic glaze or vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
02 - Divide the dressing evenly among four clean 16-ounce mason jars, pouring it into the bottom of each jar.
03 - Layer the cherry tomato halves on top of the dressing in each jar.
04 - Add the fresh mozzarella balls as the next layer over the tomatoes.
05 - Finish with a layer of fresh basil leaves on top of the mozzarella.
06 - Seal the jars tightly with lids and refrigerate until ready to serve.
07 - When serving, shake the jar gently to distribute the dressing, or pour contents onto a plate and toss gently.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • You can assemble it the night before and it stays fresh, crisp, and ready to eat without any last-minute fussing.
  • It tastes like summer in a jar—bright, fresh, and so much more interesting than a typical packed lunch.
  • The dressing settles at the bottom and actually improves the flavors as everything sits, so it gets better with a little time.
02 -
  • The order of layers matters—dressing on bottom means the delicate mozzarella and basil stay protected from getting soggy, while the tomatoes get flavored without falling apart.
  • Don't skip the draining step for mozzarella; excess liquid is the enemy of freshness and will dilute your beautiful dressing.
03 -
  • If basil starts to darken or wilt, swap it for fresh at the last moment—a quick garnish of green changes everything about how the salad tastes and looks.
  • Use the largest cherry tomatoes you can find; they'll be sweeter and less watery than tiny ones, and they'll actually hold up better in the jar.
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