Caprese salad (insalata caprese) is a simple Italian dish of fresh mozzarella cheese, ripe tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves, dressed with extra virgin olive oil and salt and pepper. It takes its name from the island of Capri, off the Amalfi coast.
The three main ingredients are sometimes called the "colors of the Italian flag." Traditional versions use fresh, soft mozzarella (often buffalo-milk mozzarella from Campania) and tomatoes at peak ripeness.
Caprese is usually served as an appetizer or light course, especially in summer when tomatoes and basil are in season. Variations add a balsamic vinegar drizzle or swap in burrata for the mozzarella.