summer caprese salad on the picnic table with nan's lala garlic vinaigrette

Summer Caprese Salad

Why You’ll Love This Summer Caprese Salad

When the temperatures rise, nothing beats a simple, no-cook dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. A classic Caprese salad celebrates the best of summer produce — ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil.

Here at Nan’s, we’ve given the recipe a fresh update by using crisp lettuce as the base and adding creamy cubed avocado for extra richness. Topped with Nan’s Lala Garlic Vinaigrette, this salad is colorful, nutrient-packed, and perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this easy, modern Caprese salad, gather:

  • 4 cups fresh lettuce (butter lettuce, arugula, or mixed greens)
  • 3–4 ripe summer tomatoes (heirloom or cherry work beautifully)
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella (sliced or small bocconcini)
  • 1 ripe avocado, cubed
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves
  • 3–4 tablespoons Nan’s Lala Garlic Vinaigrette
  • Pinch of sea salt & freshly cracked black pepper

For the Marinated Chicken Breasts:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 3 tbsp Nan’s Lala Garlic Vinaigrette
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

For the Marinated Chicken Breasts:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl or reusable bag, coat the chicken breasts in Nan’s Lala Garlic Vinaigrette, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to overnight for maximum flavor).

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
Brush the grates with a little oil, then place the chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until nicely charred and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a plate, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

For the Salad:

Step 1: Prep the Base

Wash and pat dry your lettuce. Chop & spread evenly across a large serving platter or bowl.

Step 2: Slice the Ingredients

Cut the tomatoes, halve cherry tomatoes if using. Cube avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and bright.

Step 3: Layer the Salad

Arrange tomatoes, mozzarella, cubed avocado, and basil leaves over the bed of lettuce, alternating for a colorful presentation.

Step 4: Dress It Up

Drizzle generously with Nan’s Lala Garlic Vinaigrette, letting the garlic and spices soak into the vegetables and cheese. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Serve right away as a side dish, light lunch, or appetizer. The chicken, lettuce base, and avocado cubes make this version heartier and more filling than the traditional Caprese.

👉 Want to see this recipe in action? Watch our founders prepare this Summer Caprese Salad live on FOX! Click here to watch the segment.

Tips for Nan's Caprese Salad

  • Use peak-season tomatoes for the sweetest, juiciest flavor.
  • Cube avocado last to keep it from browning before serving.
  • Mix lettuce textures — arugula adds peppery bite, butter lettuce adds softness.
  • Don’t skimp on the vinaigrette: Nan’s Lala Garlic Vinaigrette ties the flavors together beautifully.

Variations & Serving Ideas

Want to make it your own? Try these ideas:

  • Caprese Grain Bowl: Add quinoa, farro, or orzo for a hearty meal.
  • Grilled Twist: Add grilled zucchini or eggplant alongside the lettuce and avocado.
  • Party Style: Layer in a large trifle dish for a stunning layered salad.

Why Nan’s Lala Garlic Vinaigrette Works So Well

Traditional Caprese salad is dressed simply with olive oil, but Nan’s Lala Garlic Vinaigrette brings zesty garlic, herbs, and tang that brighten every bite. The vinaigrette balances the creaminess of avocado and mozzarella while enhancing the sweetness of ripe tomatoes.

Plus, Nan’s vinaigrettes are organic, crafted in small batches, and shelf-stable, so you can keep them stocked for all your summer meals.

Make This Summer Caprese Salad Tonight

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, packing a picnic, or craving a fresh weeknight salad, this Summer Caprese Salad with Lettuce, Cubed Avocado & Nan’s Lala Garlic Vinaigrette is a must-try twist on the Italian classic.

👉 Shop Nan’s Lala Garlic Vinaigrette and bring this colorful summer salad to life tonight.

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