BJ's Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe

Hey there! If you’re craving a fresh, light, and flavorful salad that screams summer, you’re in for a treat with this BJ’s-inspired tomato mozzarella salad recipe. It’s a simple yet delicious dish that combines juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil leaves, all tied together with a tangy balsamic drizzle. 

This salad is perfect for a quick lunch, a side dish at your next barbecue, or even a fancy appetizer for a dinner party. I love how it comes together in minutes but looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleaser and get cooking!

BJ's Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe - Easy Entertaining Dish

Why You'll Love This BJ's Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe

This tomato mozzarella salad is a game-changer for anyone who loves fresh, vibrant flavors. It’s super easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. 

The combination of ripe tomatoes and soft mozzarella cheese creates a perfect balance of textures, while the balsamic vinegar adds a sweet and tangy kick. It’s versatile enough to pair with almost any main dish, and it’s a great way to use up those summer tomatoes. 

Plus, it’s healthy, low-carb, and packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a quick meal, this salad will impress every time.

Read Also: Caprese Stuffed Avocados Recipe

Ingredients For BJ's Tomato Mozzarella Salad

To make this delicious tomato mozzarella salad, you’ll need the following:

Kitchen Equipment Needed

You don’t need much to whip up this salad, but here’s what will make the process smooth:

BJ's Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe - Simple Italian Classic

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s walk through how to make this salad step by step. I’ll break it down so even beginners can follow along with ease.

1. Prepare the Tomatoes

Start by rinsing your tomatoes under cool water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Place one tomato on your cutting board and use a chef’s knife to slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds. 

Try to keep the slices even for a pretty presentation. Repeat with the remaining tomatoes. If the tomatoes are very juicy, you can gently pat the slices with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

2. Slice the Mozzarella

Take your fresh mozzarella cheese and place it on the cutting board. Using the same chef’s knife, slice the mozzarella into rounds about the same thickness as the tomatoes (1/4 inch). 

If the mozzarella is too soft to slice neatly, pop it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to firm up. This makes cutting easier and prevents the cheese from sticking to the knife.

3. Prepare the Basil

Rinse the fresh basil leaves under cool water and pat them dry with a kitchen towel. You can either leave the leaves whole for a rustic look or stack them, roll them into a tight cylinder, and slice them into thin strips (this is called chiffonade). If you’re new to this, whole leaves are easier and still look great.

4. Arrange the Salad

On a large serving platter, start layering the tomato and mozzarella slices. Alternate them in a pattern—tomato, mozzarella, tomato, mozzarella—for a visually appealing look. You can overlap them slightly or arrange them in rows. Once all the slices are arranged, tuck the basil leaves between the layers or sprinkle the chiffonade over the top.

5. Make the Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Use a whisk or fork to mix until the dressing is well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—add a pinch more salt or a splash more vinegar to suit your taste.

6. Drizzle and Serve

Pour the dressing evenly over the arranged tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. For an extra touch of sweetness and a professional look, drizzle a teaspoon of balsamic glaze over the top in a zigzag pattern. Your salad is now ready to serve!

Read Also: Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad Recipe

Serving Suggestions

This tomato mozzarella salad is super versatile. Serve it as a light appetizer before a hearty meal like Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe. It also pairs beautifully with grilled meats or seafood, such as Grilled Salmon with Dill Sauce Recipe. 

For a complete meal, add some crusty bread on the side to soak up the dressing. It’s also a great addition to a summer barbecue spread alongside dishes like BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches.

BJ's Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe - Fresh and Flavorful

Variations to Try

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun ways to tweak this recipe:

Read Also: Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint Recipe

Storage and Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The tomatoes may release some juice, so give the salad a gentle toss before serving. 

Avoid freezing, as the texture of the mozzarella cheese and tomatoes will become mushy. If you want to prep ahead, slice the ingredients and store them separately, assembling just before serving.

Nutritional Facts

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Protein: 10g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 320mg

These values can vary slightly depending on the size of your tomatoes and the amount of olive oil used.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

This salad isn’t just tasty—it’s good for you too! Here’s why:

  • Tomatoes: Packed with lycopene, an antioxidant that supports heart health and may reduce the risk of certain cancers.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: A good source of protein and calcium, which are essential for strong bones and muscles.
  • Basil Leaves: Rich in anti-inflammatory compounds and antioxidants that promote overall health.
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats that support heart health and reduce inflammation.
  • Balsamic Vinegar: May help regulate blood sugar and improve digestion when consumed in moderation.

Read Also: Health Benefits of Chia Seeds

Tips for Success

To make sure your salad turns out amazing, keep these tips in mind:

  • Use the ripest tomatoes you can find for the best flavor. Heirloom varieties add a fun color mix.
  • Choose high-quality mozzarella cheese—fresh is best for that creamy texture.
  • Don’t skip the balsamic glaze if you want a restaurant-style presentation.
  • Serve the salad at room temperature for the best flavor—chilled tomatoes can taste less vibrant.
  • If your basil leaves are large, tear them gently instead of cutting to avoid bruising.

FAQs

1. Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of large tomatoes?

Yes, cherry tomatoes work great! Just halve them and pair with small mozzarella balls for a bite-sized version. You’ll need about 2 cups of cherry tomatoes to replace the large ones.

2. How can I make this salad vegan?

Swap the mozzarella cheese for a vegan cheese alternative or use avocado slices for creaminess. Ensure your balsamic vinegar and balsamic glaze are vegan-friendly, as some brands may include animal-derived ingredients.

3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead by slicing the tomatoes and mozzarella cheese and storing them separately in the fridge. Assemble the salad and add the dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.

4. What’s the difference between balsamic vinegar and balsamic glaze?

Balsamic vinegar is a thin, tangy liquid, while balsamic glaze is a thicker, sweeter reduction. The glaze adds a richer flavor and a beautiful drizzle effect, but you can skip it if you don’t have it.

5. Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Try adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier dish. Check out our Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Recipe for a perfect pairing.

Final Thoughts

This BJ’s-inspired tomato mozzarella salad is a must-try for anyone who loves fresh, simple, and delicious food. It’s the kind of recipe that feels effortless but delivers big on flavor and presentation. 

Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, a summer cookout, or just enjoying it on a quiet evening, it’s sure to become a go-to in your recipe collection. 

The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and tangy balsamic vinegar is a classic for a reason. So grab your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and enjoy a taste of summer any time of year!

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Homemade BJ's Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe