Quinoa Caprese Salad
Filled with hearty quinoa, fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and basil, this Quinoa Caprese Salad combines the classic flavors into a healthier dish. It’s easy to make, packed with protein, and is bursting with flavor!
It’s already July 1st. Can you believe it? We’re just three short days away from the 4th of July, which in my mind, means that summer is about half over. And I feel like we’re just getting started!
When I was little, I felt like the summer stretched on forever, until the 4th came. Then, I started thinking about school. But lucky for me, my school days are long gone and even though we’ve made it through almost half the summer already, we still have a lot of fun in the sun and festivities to look forward to.
First up is the 4th of July!
While this is a rather low-key holiday for me, I love to get together with friends and family, eat some good food, and watch the fireworks at night. It’s the perfect end to a great summer day. And since the 4th is on a Saturday this year, it makes it even better since you have Sunday to recuperate before going back to work. Am I right or am I right?

But back to the food. That’s one of the things that I love most about the 4th of July (and the summer). Lots of barbecues, salads, and good old-fashioned get-together, outdoor classic dishes. Which brings me to fried chicken. This is one food that reminds me of picnics and warm weather. It’s an American staple that is pretty much present at all parties, graduations, and most importantly the 4th.
When I was at Walmart over the weekend, I decided to pick up some of their fresh, hot fried chicken that is located in the deli section.
It seemed only natural that I should taste it before bringing it along to a party for the 4th. And I happy to report that this chicken did not disappoint. It’s made fresh, using quality chicken and then fried to perfection. It’s crispy, flavorful and everything that fried chicken should taste like. Trust me, you will not be disappointed by Walmart’s fresh, fried chicken.
So now that I had my main dish covered, I had to think of the perfect party dish to go along with it. And what screams summer more than the combination of tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella? Caprese-anything is my absolute favorite. Ever since I made this caprese garlic bread, I’ve been on the hunt for new ways to incorporate these fresh ingredients into a side dish.
And that’s where this Quinoa Caprese Salad comes in.
Filled with hearty quinoa, fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella and basil, this salad combines the classic flavors into a healthier dish. It’s easy to make, packed with protein, and is bursting with flavor. It also makes the perfect 4th of July dish because it can be served hot or cold. And that means if you take this on a picnic or to a friend’s house, there is no need to warm this dish up. Pretty clever, huh?

So let’s get down to business!
This Quinoa Caprese Salad is incredibly easy to make, which is perfect for the summer months. You simply cook the quinoa in some chicken broth (for enhanced flavor) and then set aside to cool. Chop some cherry tomatoes and fresh basil. I used mozzarella pearls for ease, but if you would rather use a block of mozzarella, simply dice it into small cubes.
Next comes the dressing. Add some olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic to the quinoa. Gently toss to combine and then add in the tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella. Β You can serve this salad immediately, refrigerate until ready to serve, or warm up if you so desire.
One bite and you’ll be hooked on this Quinoa Caprese Salad!
The tangy dressing and basil bursts in your mouth. And the quinoa is the perfect side to go along with the tomatoes and mozzarella cheese. You could say this salad is a match made in food heaven!
So if you’re looking for the perfect dish to bring to your 4th of July festivities, why not try this Quinoa Caprese Salad? It pairs perfectly with Walmart’s fresh, hot fried chicken and will wow your taste buds!

Looking for more salad recipes? I’ve got you covered!
- Easy Italian Pasta Salad
- BLT Ranch Pasta Salad
- Lightened Up Zesty Chicken Salad
- Caprese Mason Jar Salad

Quinoa Caprese Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cup dry quinoa
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 12 ounces mozzarella cheese pearls
- ΒΌ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- ΒΌ teaspoon black pepper
- Dash of salt
- Dash of garlic powder
Instructions
- Cook quinoa according to package directions, using chicken broth for more flavor.
- Once quinoa is done, transfer to a large serving bowl. Add in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, pepper, salt, and garlic powder. Lightly toss to coat.
- Top with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil. Stir to combine. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
This is a great July 4th side! And it’s even holiday color-themed, kind of! I’m a big fan of caprese, and adding quinoa just adds more fun!
Thanks, Mir! Everything is better with caprese ingredients!
Caprese salad is one of my favorites, but I’m usually still hungry after it! Adding the quinoa is the perfect solution to keep me full! Sounds so fresh π
Thanks, Ali! I love the addition of quinoa too, healthy and filling!
I am so loving this quinoa salad, Gayle! I’ve never thought to make a caprese version, but that’s such a great idea and sounds amazing! It may be breakfast time, but I’d soooo love a bowl of this right now π
Thanks, Danielle! And this is totally acceptable for breakfast! π
I can not believe we are already in the middle of summer!? HOW DOES THAT HAPPEN?!
BUT, I do know that I FIEND anything caprese and quinoa so, together? Gimme that! Pinned!
Ugh time is going by way too fast! Thanks for the kind words and pin, Taylor!
What a great twist on a caprese salad. I think this would be a great addition to any 4th July BBQ. I hope you have a great holiday weekend!
Thank you, Dannii! I hope you have a great weekend, too!
Gayle my mouth is watering just looking at this!! Looks so good!
Thanks, Ami!
Gayle! I know! I can’t believe it’s July 1st?!!!! already?! we love fried chicken at our house and your quinoa caprese salad is perfection!!!! love!
Thanks, Alice!
Perfect side salad for a 4th of July gathering! Looks amazing!
Thank you, Jessica! I can’t wait to make this again for the 4th!
I haven’t used quinoa in a salad yet….I think it’s about time! Love the flavors you’ve added to this one!
Thanks, Kathy! Quinoa is one of my favorite things to add to salads!
This caprese salad looks wonderful. I love that it’s made with healthier quinoa! Yum!
Thanks, Kelly!
Love caprese! This looks like the perfect healthy summer lunch! π
Thanks, Jess!
I love all of your creative takes on quinoa, Gayle! And this, of course, ranks at the top! Caprese ‘anything’ is a winner in my book! Delicious!
Thanks, Annie! I agree, caprese steals my heard every time!
You’re quinoa recipes are some of the best, Gayle. This will make a great summer lunch!
Thanks, Jen!
I can’t believe it’s July already too! This caprese salad is just gorgeous, Gayle! I love caprese anything and adding the quinoa is such a fantastic idea! This would make the perfect side dish for all those summer cookouts too!
Thanks, Kelly!
I love quinoa, this salad looks awesome Gayle! I need to try this!
Thank you, Manali! It’s one of my favorite salads!
Love quinoa and have been thinking to try a quinoa caprese! Looks awesome Gayle!
Thanks, Mira! Quinoa and caprese make the perfect combo!
We eat lots of quinoa in our house..and this looks another great way to serve quinoa. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for the kind words, Angie!
My boyfriend would LOVE this. I would definitely serve it next to some chicken or salmon for a perfect dinner!
Thanks, Dani! Hope your boyfriend likes this if you make it!
Yum you had me at caprese salad! And I just love quinoa, I always make a big batch at the beginning of the week! So versatile!
Thanks, Sam! I love quinoa too, especially in salads!
What a great idea for a side dish! I can’t believe it’s already July, either!
Thanks, Sam!
What a delicious salad! Just yesterday, I noticed the first 2 grape tomatoes on our tomato plants. Shouldn’t be long until I have a ton! Then I will be looking for all sorts of ways to use them up. This salad will be perfect : )
Oh I love grape tomatoes! I can eat them like popcorn! Thanks for the kind words, Natalie!
*Not sure if my first comment posted- my internet dropped out* So I’m going to try this again!
I.Know- can’t believe how fast summer is going by either! But what better way to enjoy what remains than with this delish salad? I love caprese anything and adore that you combined it with quinoa! Perfect for a more substantial meal! Cheers and warm wishes for a fabulous 4th! π
Thanks for the kind words, Cheyanne! Hopefully the summer will slow down just a little for us! π
Quinoa and caprese = win! win! Love this, Gayle!
Thanks, Rachelle!
This sounds fantastic Gayle! This would make a super easy summer side dish!
Yes! I love easy recipes like this. Thanks, Kelley!
I seriously can’t believe it is July! This salad looks awesome – I love all things caprese!! So summery! Hope you are having a great summer, Gayle!
Thank you, Cate! Hope your summer is going well, too!
I’d be all over this because I will eat anything caprese, or quinoa for that matter! This is the perfect summer side! π
Thanks, Marcie!
I love quinoa and eat so much of it! Love the Italian twist to this recipe, definitely need to try it π looks delicious! x
Thanks for the kind words, Nadia! Sounds like you would love this dish!
Caprese Salad is a summer favorite of mine, so this is perfect. I love the addition of quinoa! I agree with you about summer being half over once the 4th comes – it goes so fast after that!
Thanks, Keri! I love sneaking caprese flavors into anything and everything! π
Quinoa salads are one of my favourite things to make during summer! This sounds so delicious Gayle. The mozzarella and tomato combo sounds absolutely perfect, and I love the flavours from the basil, garlic and chicken broth – yum!
Thanks so much for the caprese love, Harriet Emily! Quinoa is definitely one of the best salad ingredients, especially with fresh summer flavors! π
This looks beyond fabulous! Quinoa is a total protein booster and you just cannot go wrong with caprese!
Thanks, Medha! I completely agree with you…quinoa and caprese belong together! π
You had me at caprese! I love anything with fresh mozz and tomatoes! This salad looks delicious! #client
Thanks for the kind words, Sarah!
I love quinoa and cherry tomatoes! this looks delicious! great for lunch or dinner! yummm!
Thanks, Michele!
I love caprese salad, although now I make a vegan cheese to put in mine. You’re so creative to make a quinoa version Gayle. Love it!
Thanks, Linda! It makes a delicious quinoa salad!
YUM! I haven’t even had a bite, but I am hooked! This quinoa – mozzarella – tomato salad sounds so insanely good – and an awesome side to some fried chicken!
Thanks so much for the caprese love, Shashi!
Okay, if this isn’t the BEST way to eat quinoa I don’t even know what is. I’m seriously swooning over this gorgeous salad, Gayle! Loading up a ton of caprese goodness is such an awesome idea! I need this in my life for the holiday weekend!
Thank you, Sarah! Caprese makes the best summer salad!
This is the perfect summer salad! So light and healthy!
Thanks, Christin!
What a great idea, Gayle! I love caprese anything, AND I love quinoa – so this sounds perfect!! π
Thanks, Christina!
Yessssss I am in love with Caprese anything! This sounds so so so good. Totally making soon!
Thanks, Annie!
Gayle, this is such a delicious combo! I’m huge fan of quinoa, plus caprese! who would not love that! great idea! love the pictures too! I will be trying this soon! pinning!
Thanks so much for the kind words and pin, Savita!
You have great ideas Gayle! Love this caprese salad. Never thought to add it with quinoa. Look so light and fresh. Yum! Pinned! π
Thanks, Cyndi!
I am so excited that 4th of July is only a couple days away! It is one of my favorite holidays! This quinoa salad is brilliant! I am trying to eat more quinoa so this fits the bill perfectly! Pinned for later π
Thanks, Mariah! I love using quinoa in salads because it makes it healthier and delicious! Have a wonderful 4th, friend!
I am obsessed with caprese salads in the summer. It seems every other day I am going to the farmstand to buy more tomatoes so I can eat more of it! I love this mixup on it and how you made a light salad much more filling!
Thanks, Shelby!
I love the caprese combination, so naturally this recipe looks like heaven in a bowl to me. π And with quinoa? Well, that’s just pure deliciousness π
Thanks for the quinoa love!
Summer is the perfect time for caprese dishes. I’m really curious to try this quinoa. π It looks so filing and scrumptious. The summer feels like it’s speeding by for me. I need it to slow down a little bit.
Thanks, Erin! Quinoa and caprese make the perfect combo. Hope you love this if you try it!
Summer can’t possibly be half-over, it just started (here!) Looks like the perfect refreshing and light salad to go with some fried chicken. Happy 4th of July!
Thanks, Denise! Happy weekend to you!
Dear Gayle, What a delightful salad to serve alongside fried chicken…looks like a delicious summer meal. xo, Catherine
Thank you, Catherine!