This Caprese Salad with Cherry Tomatoes is a quick and easy 5-minute summer appetizer that’s perfect for the 4th of July. It combines juicy cherry tomatoes, sweet blueberries, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella for a festive red, white, and blue presentation.
The easiest 4th of July salad I’ve ever made!
Red, white & blue — this is a simple, show-stopping salad that comes together in minutes. I used cherry tomatoes and basil from our garden, which really brightened the flavor. A small extra step — cutting star shapes from a fresh mozzarella log with a cookie cutter — makes it especially fun for kids. My daughter called it the “star salad” before she even tasted it.
This salad disappeared the same day I made it. If you’re serving a crowd, plan to double or triple the recipe — it’s always popular.
Prepare the components ahead of time, but assemble the salad just before serving so it looks fresh and vibrant on the table.
Ingredients You Need
Star cookie cutter (optional for mozzarella stars)
Blueberries — 1 cup
Cherry tomatoes, halved — 2 cups
Marinated mozzarella balls, drained — 12 ounces
Fresh mozzarella log, sliced and cut into stars — 8 ounces
Fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish) — about 2 tbsp
Balsamic vinaigrette dressing — 3–4 tbsp, plus more for serving
Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
How to Make Caprese Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
1. Mix the base
In a large bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, blueberries, chopped basil, and the drained marinated mozzarella balls. Toss gently to combine so the colors are evenly distributed.
2. Cut the mozzarella stars
Slice the fresh mozzarella log into even rounds. Use a small star-shaped cookie cutter to cut stars from the slices. This step is optional but adds a festive touch that kids love.
3. Assemble the salad
Spread the mixed ingredients onto a serving platter, arranging them so the red, white, and blue colors show. Scatter the mozzarella stars on top for a patriotic look.
4. Finish and serve
Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad, sprinkle with more fresh basil, and season with salt and fresh ground pepper to taste. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Tips for the best salad
Plan to make a little extra — this dish disappears quickly at parties. Use ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and fresh basil whenever possible. If you’re hosting, prep the ingredients in advance and assemble just before guests arrive so the salad stays bright and fresh.
What to serve with this salad
This Caprese salad pairs wonderfully with classic summer dishes and BBQ favorites. It’s a refreshing starter or side that complements grilled meats and casual party food.
- Burgers
- Hot dogs
- Grilled chicken
- Pasta salad
- Corn on the cob
- Other BBQ favorites and finger foods
Storage tips
This salad is best fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate and add it right before serving to maintain texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Prep the ingredients ahead, but assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and visually appealing.
Fresh mozzarella is ideal — either sliced from a log or small mozzarella pearls. The log works best if you want to cut shapes.
Absolutely. Grape tomatoes work just as well if that’s what you have on hand.
If you enjoy quick, fresh recipes like this, try pairing it with other easy dishes for a festive summer spread. The bright colors and simple flavors make it an instant crowd-pleaser.
Patriotic Red White & Blue Caprese Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cup blueberries
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 12 ounces marinated mozzarella balls, drained
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella log, sliced and cut into stars
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish
- 3–4 tbsp balsamic vinaigrette, plus more for serving
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, blueberries, chopped basil, and the drained marinated mozzarella balls. Toss gently to mix.
- Slice the fresh mozzarella log into rounds and use a small star cookie cutter to cut stars from the slices, if desired.
- Arrange the mixed salad on a serving platter and top with mozzarella stars. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and garnish with extra basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately for best texture and appearance.
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Caprese Salad with Cherry Tomatoes for the 4th of July
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