Caprese salad is a classic Italian dish made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

It's a light, refreshing, and flavorful salad perfect for any meal or occasion.

In this post, you will find 20 delicious side dishes that can be served alongside Caprese salad to create a satisfying and well-rounded meal.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with caprese salad are garlic bread, bruschetta, grilled chicken, stuffed shells, baked ziti, gluten free bread, grilled vegetables, pesto pasta, Italian sausage, antipasto platter, focaccia, and risotto.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Bruschetta

Bruschetta is an Italian appetizer made with toasted bread slices topped with a mixture of fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil. The combination of bruschetta and caprese salad creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures, making it an excellent choice for a light yet satisfying meal.

2. Stuffed Shells

Ricotta stuffed shells are a delightful Italian dish made with large pasta shells filled with a mixture of ricotta cheese, herbs, and sometimes spinach. The creamy, savory flavors of the stuffed shells provide a satisfying contrast to the light and tangy caprese salad, making it an enjoyable combination.

3. Baked Ziti

Baked ziti is a comforting Italian pasta dish made with ziti pasta, marinara sauce, and plenty of gooey cheese. The rich, hearty flavors of baked ziti work well with the fresh and vibrant caprese salad, resulting in a satisfying and delicious meal that's perfect for any occasion.

4. Gluten-Free Bread

For those with gluten sensitivities or preferences, gluten-free bread is a great alternative to traditional bread options. The soft, fluffy texture of gluten-free bread makes it an excellent accompaniment to caprese salad, allowing everyone to enjoy the meal without any dietary concerns.

5. Caponata

Caponata is a flavorful Sicilian dish made with eggplant, tomatoes, olives, capers, and a sweet and sour sauce. The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in caponata pairs nicely with the fresh taste of caprese salad, adding a unique and delicious twist to the meal.

6. Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a crowd-pleasing side dish featuring crusty bread slices slathered in garlic-infused butter and toasted to perfection. The warm, savory flavors of garlic bread pair wonderfully with the fresh, bright flavors of caprese salad. It's the ideal accompaniment to add a touch of warmth and crunch to your meal.

7. Chimichurri Steak

Chimichurri Steak offers a burst of vibrant flavor that complements the freshness of Caprese Salad. The herby and tangy chimichurri sauce pairs wonderfully with the juicy steak, creating a delightful balance with the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. It's a combination that adds a touch of elegance to any meal.

8. Grilled Scallops

Grilled Scallops are a delicate and luxurious choice to pair with Caprese Salad. Their light, buttery texture and subtle sweetness offer a perfect counterpoint to the rich and savory elements of the salad. Together, they create a sophisticated dining experience that's sure to impress.

9. Zucchini Noodles

Zucchini Noodles, or "zoodles," provide a light and healthy option to accompany Caprese Salad. With their fresh and crisp texture, they blend seamlessly with the flavors of fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella. This pairing offers a delightful low-carb meal that is both satisfying and full of garden-fresh taste.

10. Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, make a delicious and healthy side dish for caprese salad. The smoky, charred flavors of the grilled vegetables complement the fresh and vibrant taste of caprese salad, adding depth and variety to the meal.

11. Pesto Pasta

Pesto pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish made with pasta tossed in a sauce of fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. The bright, herbaceous flavors of pesto pasta pair beautifully with the fresh, tangy taste of caprese salad, making it a delightful combination for a summer meal.

12. Italian Sausage

Italian sausage, either grilled or pan-seared, is a savory and flavorful addition to any meal. The rich, meaty flavors of Italian sausage provide a satisfying contrast to the light, refreshing taste of caprese salad. This combination creates a balanced and fulfilling meal that's sure to please.

13. Antipasto Platter

An antipasto platter, featuring a selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables, is a great side dish to serve with caprese salad. The variety of flavors and textures found on an antipasto platter enhances the overall dining experience, making it an ideal choice for entertaining or enjoying a leisurely meal.

14. Focaccia

Focaccia is a flavorful and fluffy Italian flatbread, often topped with olive oil, herbs, and sea salt. The soft and pillowy texture of focaccia makes it an excellent accompaniment to caprese salad, as it can be used to soak up the delicious juices from the tomatoes and mozzarella.

15. Risotto

Risotto is a creamy Italian rice dish, often made with Arborio rice, Parmesan cheese, and a variety of flavorful ingredients. A simple risotto, such as lemon or Parmesan risotto, makes a delightful side dish for caprese salad, adding a touch of richness and creaminess to the meal.

16. Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken is a versatile and protein-packed side dish that pairs beautifully with caprese salad. The succulent, smoky flavors of grilled chicken complement the refreshing taste of the salad, creating a balanced and satisfying meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner.

17. Orzo Salad

Orzo salad is a light and refreshing pasta salad made with orzo pasta, vegetables, and a zesty dressing. The bright and fresh flavors of orzo salad make it a delightful side dish to serve alongside caprese salad, creating a satisfying and well-rounded meal.

18. Polenta

Polenta is a creamy Italian dish made from coarsely ground cornmeal and typically served as a side dish. The smooth, comforting texture of polenta complements the fresh flavors of caprese salad, offering a satisfying and delicious combination that is perfect for any time of the year.

19. Arancini

Arancini are crispy, deep-fried rice balls filled with various ingredients, such as mozzarella cheese, meat, or vegetables. The crunchy exterior and creamy interior of arancini provide a delightful contrast to the soft and fresh caprese salad, adding a touch of indulgence to the meal.

20. Balsamic Glazed Salmon

Balsamic Glazed Salmon provides a rich and tangy accompaniment to Caprese Salad. The sweetness of the balsamic glaze complements the acidity of the tomatoes and the creaminess of the mozzarella. Together, the salmon and salad create a gourmet dish that's both nourishing and flavorful, perfect for a special dinner or a healthy everyday meal.

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