Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show your loved ones how much you care, and what better way than with a heart-shaped twist on a classic?

This healthy Caprese salad isn’t just delicious—it’s also visually stunning, making it a Pinterest-worthy addition to your Valentine’s Day table.

With fresh ingredients and a sprinkle of love, this recipe idea is sure to become a favorite for date nights, special occasions, or even a fun activity with kids.

The Love Story Behind This Recipe ❤️

I still remember the first Valentine’s Day my partner and I spent together. I wanted to create something that felt personal and thoughtful but was also healthy and light enough to leave room for dessert (because, chocolate strawberries!). That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of crafting heart-shaped mozzarella and tomatoes for a playful yet elegant Caprese salad. It’s been a tradition ever since, and I promise it’s easier than it looks!

How to Make the Perfect Heart-Shaped Caprese Salad 💕

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by gathering everything you’ll need (full list at the end of this post). Use fresh, high-quality ingredients to let the flavors shine—after all, simplicity is what makes a Caprese salad so irresistible.

Step 2: Create Heart-Shaped Tomatoes and Mozzarella

Tomatoes: Use small Roma or Campari tomatoes for the perfect size. Slice them in half diagonally, then rotate one half and join the pieces to form a heart. Use a toothpick to secure if necessary.
Mozzarella: Opt for a fresh mozzarella log or slices. Use a small heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out adorable hearts. If you don’t have a cutter, you can carefully shape them with a knife.

Pro Tip: Don’t waste the scraps! Chop them up for a quick bruschetta topping.

Step 3: Arrange with Love

On a serving plate, alternate the heart-shaped tomatoes and mozzarella slices. Tuck in fresh basil leaves between each heart for that classic Caprese look.

Step 4: Drizzle and Season

Drizzle a high-quality balsamic glaze over the salad for a touch of sweetness. Finish with a generous sprinkle of flaky sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Serve immediately for the freshest flavor. Pair it with whole-grain crackers, a crisp glass of white wine, or even heart-shaped garlic bread for a complete Valentine’s Day feast.

Maximum Freshness and Storage 🌟

Prep Ahead: You can slice the mozzarella and tomatoes a few hours in advance. Keep them in airtight containers to maintain freshness.

Avoid Sogginess: Add the balsamic glaze and olive oil just before serving.

A Personal Take on Flavor Additions 🌈

For an extra layer of indulgence, sprinkle your salad with toasted pine nuts or add a few pomegranate seeds for a burst of sweetness. If you love a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes over the top can work wonders.

Pairing Suggestions for the Perfect Valentine’s Menu 🍷

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Healthy Biscoff Mousse Recipe (link to recipe idea here!)

Pin This Recipe for Later 📌

Looking for the ultimate Valentine’s Day inspiration? Pin this heart-shaped Caprese salad to your recipe ideas board on Pinterest and make it a tradition for years to come! 💕

Make this Valentine’s Day unforgettable with a dish that’s as romantic as it is healthy. Try this trend today and watch the love (and likes) pour in!