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BJ’s Brewhouse Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe
There’s something irresistibly refreshing about a tomato mozzarella salad especially when it gets a smoky, savory twist like this one inspired by BJ’s Brewhouse. Instead of a standard Caprese-style dish, this recipe transforms cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella into a warm, flavor-packed side that feels fancy but is effortless to make.
What makes this salad stand out is the bold approach to simple ingredients. Cherry tomatoes are charred in a cast iron skillet to intensify their sweetness, and tossed in a punchy, umami-rich dressing. Anchovies, thyme, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes build a powerful layer of flavor.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just elevate a weeknight dinner, this BJ’s Brewhouse Tomato Mozzarella Salad recipe is your go-to. It’s colorful, textural, and absolutely satisfying.
Why You’ll Love BJ’s Brewhouse Tomato Mozzarella Salad
I didn’t expect such a simple salad to deliver so much flavor, but this dish genuinely blew me away. The first time I made it, the aroma of charred cherry tomatoes filled my kitchen, and I knew something special was happening.
What really surprised me was how the vinaigrette anchovy, lemon, thyme, and garlic brought everything to life. It was sharp, herbaceous, and bold without overpowering the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
The real magic happened after the salad sat for a bit, allowing everything to mingle. With torn mozzarella soaking up all that dressing and fresh basil adding bursts of freshness, it was hands down one of the best tomato salads I’ve had.
Ingredients Required for BJ’s Brewhouse Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe
Before you start, make sure you have all the following ingredients listed below for this BJ’s Brewhouse Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe
- 1 lb cherry tomatoes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, torn into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1 garlic clove, mashed into a paste with ¼ tsp kosher salt
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp + 2 tsp red wine vinegar
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 3 anchovy fillets, minced
- 2 tsp fresh thyme, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- Additional 4 tsp extra virgin olive oil (for tomatoes & peppers)
- 1 tsp kosher salt (½ tsp each for tomatoes and peppers)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Cast iron skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Rubber spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Garlic press or flat knife for mashing
- Serving platter
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Marination time: 30 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Copycat BJ’s Brewhouse Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe
Just follow these easy steps to make your own BJ’s Brewhouse Tomato Mozzarella Salad at home
1. Make the Dressing: Mash 1 garlic clove with ¼ tsp kosher salt into a paste. In a bowl, whisk together the garlic paste, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp + 2 tsp red wine vinegar, 2 tsp lemon juice, 3 minced anchovies, 2 tsp minced thyme, ½ tsp red pepper flakes, ½ tsp smoked paprika, and ½ tsp salt. Set aside.
2. Char the Tomatoes: Toss 1 lb cherry tomatoes with 2 tsp olive oil and ½ tsp salt. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium for 10 minutes. Add tomatoes and cook undisturbed for 4 minutes, then stir and cook another 2 minutes until charred and soft.
3. Char the Peppers: Thinly slice 1 red bell pepper. Toss with 2 tsp olive oil and ½ tsp salt. Cook in the same skillet for 4 minutes undisturbed, then stir and cook another 2 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.
4. Combine with Dressing: Add the hot tomatoes and peppers to the dressing. Toss gently and let sit for 30 minutes to absorb flavor and cool.
5. Add Basil and Mozzarella: Tear ½ cup fresh basil and 8 oz mozzarella into bite-sized pieces. Add to the salad and toss gently to coat.
6. Serve: Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy slightly warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.
How to Store BJ’s Brewhouse Tomato Mozzarella Salad Properly?
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving, as the flavors are best when not too cold.
What to Pair and Serve with BJ’s Brewhouse Tomato Mozzarella Salad
1. With Warm, Crusty Bread
We can’t tell you how many times we’ve mopped up every drop of that bold, garlicky dressing with a slice of crusty sourdough. The bread soaks it all up beautifully and honestly, it turns this salad into a full meal.
2. Alongside Grilled Chicken or Steak
We’ve served this salad next to grilled chicken breasts or a perfectly seared ribeye, and it always brings balance. The smoky char of the tomatoes and peppers mirrors that grill flavor, while the mozzarella cools everything down.
3. Tucked Into a Toasted Baguette
One time we piled this salad (mozzarella and all) into a toasted baguette for a makeshift sandwich and wow. It was juicy, creamy, tangy, and messy in the best way possible.
4. As a Topping for Crostini
We’ve spooned it over crostini at parties, especially when it’s had time to marinate. Just add a smear of ricotta or goat cheese underneath, and you’ve got an easy appetizer everyone loves.
5. With a Glass of Chilled Rosé
We tried this on a summer evening with a cold glass of dry rosé, and the acidity from the wine lifted the dish even more. That herby dressing and the wine just worked together.
6. Served Over Farro or Couscous
One time, we turned this salad into a grain bowl by spooning it over warm farro. The vinaigrette seeps into the grains, and the textures are fantastic especially when you add some toasted pine nuts on top.
7. With Poached Eggs for Brunch
This may sound a little unorthodox, but we added a couple of runny poached eggs on top for brunch once and it was dreamy. The yolk mingled with the dressing like it was meant to be.
8. As a Picnic Staple
We’ve taken this salad (cooled, of course) on picnics, and it holds up really well. The dressing actually gets better the longer it sits, and it’s way more exciting than your average pasta salad.
9. Next to Grilled Fish
Pairing it with something like grilled sea bass or salmon was a hit for us. The salad cuts through the richness of the fish while bringing its own depth and brightness.
10. As a Warm Side for a Holiday Spread
We’ve even made this salad as part of a holiday dinner, nestled between roasted meats and creamy sides. It added that much-needed pop of color and freshness to the table, and guests kept asking for the recipe!
My Personal Experience With this Recipe and Some Tips
1. Use sweet cherry tomatoes
Pick the red ones that look shiny and feel soft. They taste sweet and juicy!
2. Make your pan hot-hot-hot!
Wait 10 minutes before adding the tomatoes. A hot pan gives the best char!
3. Don’t stir the tomatoes right away
Let them sit in the pan for 4 minutes first. That’s how they get nice and toasty!
4. Use good olive oil
Pick the one that smells fresh and tasty. It makes the salad super yummy.
5. Mash the garlic well
Use salt to mash it. It turns soft like a paste and mixes better in the dressing.
6. Don’t skip the anchovies
They don’t taste fishy, promise! They make everything taste richer and better.
7. Let the salad rest
After mixing, wait 30 minutes. This helps all the flavors become best friends.
8. Tear the basil and cheese with your hands
No need for knives! Torn pieces grab more dressing and look pretty.
9. Be gentle when mixing
Use a soft spoon or spatula. Don’t smash the tomatoes!
10. Taste before serving
Take a little bite. Add a tiny pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon if you need more zing!
FAQs on BJ’s Brewhouse Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe
Here are some common questions I’ve got you covered about the BJ’s Brewhouse Tomato Mozzarella Salad Recipe.
1. Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Yes, absolutely! We’ve tested both and grape tomatoes work just fine. Just make sure they’re fresh and firm so they hold up well to the charring process.
2. Do I really need to char the tomatoes and peppers?
We highly recommend it. The charring adds a smoky depth that takes the salad from good to incredible. It also softens the tomatoes just enough to help them soak up the dressing beautifully.
3. What if I don’t have anchovies can I skip them?
You can, but we’ve tried it both ways, and the anchovies add a subtle umami that really enhances the dressing. It won’t taste fishy, promise it just tastes better.
4. How long can I marinate the BJ’s Brewhouse Tomato Mozzarella Salad before serving?
From our experience, 30 minutes is ideal. You can go up to 2 hours at room temperature. This resting time helps the flavors meld without making the mozzarella too soft.
5. Can I make BJ’s Brewhouse Tomato Mozzarella Salad in advance?
Yes! We often prep everything (except the mozzarella and basil) a few hours ahead. Add those fresh ingredients just before serving so they stay vibrant and creamy.
6. Is there a substitute for red wine vinegar?
We’ve swapped it with white wine vinegar or even sherry vinegar in a pinch. It works, but red wine vinegar has the best balance of tang and depth for this recipe.
7. What kind of mozzarella should I use?
Fresh mozzarella is a must. We always tear it by hand for better texture and flavor absorption plus, it looks rustic and beautiful.
8. Can I grill the vegetables instead of using a skillet?
Definitely! We’ve grilled the tomatoes and peppers during summer BBQs, and the flavor is even smokier. Just make sure not to overcook them.
9. Why is it important to season each component separately?
From experience, layering salt and oil as you go makes a huge difference. It ensures every bite is seasoned and flavorful, instead of tasting flat.
10. How can I make this BJ’s Brewhouse Tomato Mozzarella Salad more filling for a meal?
We’ve added grilled chicken, crusty bread, or even quinoa to turn it into a full meal. It pairs especially well with something hearty that complements the bold dressing.
This BJ’s Brewhouse Tomato Mozzarella Salad recipe is more than just a side dish it’s a celebration of texture, bold flavor, and smart technique. With just a few fresh ingredients and a little kitchen love, you’ll create a salad that’ll steal the spotlight. Give it a try and let me know how yours turns out in the comments below!
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