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BJ’s Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, fresh, and ridiculously easy salad, then BJ’s Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe is your new go-to. Bursting with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, buttery avocado, and crisp cucumber, this summer salad is a refreshing crowd-pleaser.
Perfect for BBQs, picnics, or lazy lunches, this salad is elevated with a simple balsamic garlic dressing that ties everything together beautifully. It’s light, flavorful, and requires only a handful of ingredients most of which you probably already have at home.
Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it solo, this BJ’s Brewhouse Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe is sure to steal the show. Let’s dive into this fresh and fabulous recipe.
Why You’ll Love BJ’s Tomato Mozzarella Salad
The first time I tasted this salad was at my sister Svetlana’s barbecue, and from the very first bite, I was hooked. The explosion of flavors, paired with the creamy mozzarella and that garlic-kissed dressing, had me asking for the recipe on the spot.
I couldn’t believe how quickly it came together, especially with the clever tomato-slicing hack she showed me. It’s one of those dishes that tastes like you spent hours on it, when in reality, it’s done in minutes.
Now, this salad has become a summer staple in my home. Every bite reminds me of warm afternoons, fresh garden veggies, and the joy of discovering something truly delicious.
Ingredients Required for BJ’s Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe
Before you start, make sure you have all the following ingredients listed below for this BJ’s Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ large English cucumber (or 3 small garden cucumbers), sliced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls (or equivalent, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Fresh basil leaves (chiffonade cut)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 garlic clove, finely chopped or pressed
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Serrated knife
- Two plastic lids (for the tomato hack)
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Garlic press or fine grater
- Small dish (for dressing)
- Bench scraper (optional but handy)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Required: None
Copycat BJ’s Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe
Just follow these easy steps to make your own BJ’s Tomato Mozzarella Salad at home
1. Prep the Tomatoes: Halve 2 cups of cherry tomatoes using a serrated knife. For a faster method, sandwich them between two plastic lids and slice through with the knife. Transfer to a mixing bowl.
2. Chop the Veggies: Slice ½ an English cucumber (or 3 small garden cucumbers) into quarters lengthwise, then cut into bite-sized pieces. Dice 1 ripe avocado by halving it, removing the pit, peeling the skin, and chopping the flesh. Add both to the bowl.
3. Add the Mozzarella: Toss in 8 oz of fresh mozzarella pearls. If using larger mozzarella balls or a block, cut them into smaller pieces before adding.
4. Slice the Basil: Stack and roll several fresh basil leaves into a tight log. Slice into thin ribbons (a chiffonade cut) using a sharp knife. Avoid chopping again to preserve freshness. Add to the salad.
5. Make the Dressing: In a small dish, whisk together 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, and 1 pressed or finely minced garlic clove. Let the mixture sit briefly for flavor to develop.
6. Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to combine. Make sure everything is coated evenly. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh flavors!
How to Store BJ’s Tomato Mozzarella Salad Properly?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. For best texture, enjoy immediately, as avocado may brown and basil may wilt over time.
What to Pair and Serve with BJ’s Tomato Mozzarella Salad
1. With Grilled Chicken
We’ve served this salad alongside lemon-herb grilled chicken, and wow it’s a match made in heaven. The freshness of the salad balances the savory char of the meat perfectly.
2. As a Light Lunch with Toasted Bread
On busy afternoons, I love piling this salad over thick slices of toasted sourdough or baguette. It soaks up that garlicky dressing like a dream.
3. Next to BBQ Dishes
At my sister’s barbecue, this salad sat proudly beside burgers, hot dogs, Beer Glazed Wings, and grilled kebabs. Honestly, it brightened up every plate!
4. With Pasta
Toss it next to a creamy pasta or even stir some into cold pasta for a fresh twist kind of like a caprese pasta salad.
5. As a Brunch Side
We once served it during a weekend brunch spread think eggs, toast, and this salad. Surprisingly perfect!
6. Topped with Grilled Shrimp
Try it once with warm grilled shrimp on top. Trust me, that combo is something special.
7. As a Picnic Salad
Pack it chilled in a jar for a picnic just layer the dressing at the bottom and shake when ready to eat.
8. With Crusty Garlic Bread
You’ll want something to mop up that dressing garlic bread does the job beautifully.
9. Next to a Frittata or Quiche
It’s a gorgeous, light pairing with egg-based dishes.
10. Stuffed into a Wrap
Leftovers? We’ve wrapped them up in flatbread with a smear of hummus delicious and satisfying.
My Personal Experience With this Recipe and Some Tips
1. Use a sharp knife.
It makes cutting tomatoes and other veggies much easier and safer.
2. Try the tomato trick.
Put the tomatoes between two lids and slice across. It’s fast and fun!
3. Pick a soft avocado.
If it feels a little squishy when you press it, it’s just right.
4. Cut everything the same size.
This helps each bite have a little of everything yum!
5. Use small mozzarella balls.
They are easy to use. No cutting needed!
6. Chop basil gently.
Roll the leaves, then slice. It keeps the basil looking and tasting fresh.
7. Press the garlic.
A garlic press or grater makes tiny bits, so you don’t get big chunks.
8. Mix the dressing first.
Let it sit for a minute. It tastes even better that way.
9. Toss gently.
Be careful when mixing so the avocado doesn’t get mushy.
10. Eat it fresh.
This salad tastes best right after you make it. So dig in!
FAQs on BJ’s Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe
Here are some common questions I’ve got you covered about the BJ’s Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe.
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but only a few hours ahead. I usually prep the veggies and dressing separately, then mix everything just before serving to keep the avocado and basil fresh.
2. What’s the best type of mozzarella to use?
Fresh mozzarella pearls are super convenient and look great in the salad. If I don’t have those, I use a block of mozzarella and cut it into bite-sized chunks.
3. Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Absolutely! I’ve used both, and they taste very similar. Just slice them in half the same way.
4. What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
I’ve swapped it with red wine vinegar or even a splash of lemon juice in a pinch. It changes the flavor slightly, but still tastes amazing.
5. How do I keep the avocado from browning?
I always add avocado last and toss it gently with the dressing. The olive oil helps slow down the browning.
6. Is there a substitute for fresh basil?
Basil is ideal for the flavor, but I’ve used chives and even flat-leaf parsley when I ran out. It’s still tasty, just slightly different.
7. Can I make it vegan?
Yes! Just skip the mozzarella or use a plant-based mozzarella alternative. I’ve done it before for a vegan guest it still shines.
8. Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Definitely. I’ve added grilled chicken, shrimp, and even chickpeas when I wanted something heartier.
9. How long does it last in the fridge?
It’s best eaten fresh, but leftovers keep well for about 24 hours. Just know the avocado might brown and the basil may wilt a little.
10. What’s the trick to slicing cherry tomatoes fast?
Ah, the plastic lid hack! It changed everything for me. Just sandwich the tomatoes between two lids and slice across. Super quick and safe!
This BJ’s Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavor. With creamy mozzarella, garden-fresh veggies, and that bold yet balanced dressing, it’s summer in a bowl. Give it a try and see why it’s a family favorite don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and leave a comment below if you loved it!
I’d love to hear your thoughts-leave a comment on the blog and let me know How it came out! Don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest, Facebook and YouTube for more delicious updates. Your support truly means everything to me.
