20-Minute Grilled Tomato Caprese Salad
Ripe tomato slices grilled over high heat until charred, topped with fresh mozzarella that melts into creamy pockets. A savory Montreal steak seasoning replaces traditional basil as the dominant spice, while white balsamic vinegar dressing adds brightness. Quick assembly showcases the quality of each ingredient.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- olive oil, for brushing
- 2 tbsp white balsamic vinegar
- 4 tsp McCormick Grill Mates Smoky Montreal Steak Seasoning, dividedkosher salt plus smoked paprika1:1 salt, 1/4 tsp paprika per tsp seasoning
DIY smokiness, less garlic and peppercorn
- 2 tsp McCormick Basil Leavesfresh basil1:1
stronger herbal note
- ¼ tsp McCormick Mustard, Ground
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, cut into 1-inch slices, about 12 slices
- 12 fresh mozzarella cheese, slices, about 8 oz
Instructions
- 1
Whisk together oil, white balsamic vinegar, one portion of Smoky Montreal Steak Seasoning, basil leaves, and ground mustard in a small bowl until combined. Set aside.
- 2
Brush tomato slices lightly with additional oil and sprinkle with remaining Smoky Montreal Steak Seasoning.
- 3
Grill tomatoes over high heat on one side for 3 to 4 minutes.
- 4
Turn tomatoes and grill for 2 minutes longer.
- 5
Top each tomato slice with fresh mozzarella cheese and grill for 1 minute longer or until cheese is melted.
- 6
Transfer tomatoes to a serving platter, whisk the balsamic dressing, and drizzle over tomatoes and mozzarella.
Tips
Use tomatoes at peak ripeness for best grilled flavor and juice retention.
Monitor cheese closely during final minute to avoid excessive browning.
Whisk dressing again just before drizzling to recombine oil and vinegar.
Good to Know
Best served immediately. Leftover grilled tomatoes and cheese can be refrigerated up to 1 day; serve chilled or at room temperature.
Whisk dressing up to 2 hours ahead. Slice tomatoes and brush with oil up to 30 minutes before grilling.
Serve on a platter at room temperature or warm, with additional olive oil drizzled on the side.
Common Mistakes
Grill tomatoes too long to avoid excessive softening and loss of shape
Turn tomatoes only once to avoid breakage
Whisk dressing vigorously to emulsify oil and vinegar, preventing separation on the plate
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
DIY smokiness, less garlic and peppercorn