Combining creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, peppery arugula, and a zesty balsamic sauce, BJ’s Tomato Mozzarella Salad is a light, colorful, and healthful salad. This salad is a favorite for nutritious eating without sacrificing taste, whether you’re eating it as a light entrée, appetizer, or side dish. BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse’s original version has roasted tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, baby greens, basil, and a balsamic drizzle—a straightforward yet elegant Italian-inspired combination.
Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
- One pint of grape or cherry tomatoes (heirloom types are excellent)
- One tablespoon of virgin olive oil
- One pinch of sea salt
- One sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper
- 4 ounces of spring mix or arugula
- Eight ounces of fresh mozzarella (pearls, medallions, or ripped pieces)
- Two tablespoons of homemade or store-bought balsamic glaze
- Two to three freshly chopped or torn basil leaves
- (Additions are optional):
- Half a red onion, cut thinly
- Slices of avocado
- Pine nuts that have been toasted
- For protein, try grilled chicken.
Instructions
1. Roast the Tomatoes
Set the oven temperature to 400°F, or 200°C. Spread the tomatoes on a parchment paper-lined baking pan after tossing them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast until they soften and blister, about 20 to 25 minutes. Allow to cool a little.
2. Prep the Greens
Rinse and dry your spring mix or arugula while the tomatoes roast. Place it on individual plates or as a foundation on a serving platter.
3. Add Mozzarella
Evenly scatter the fresh mozzarella on top of the leaves. Lay medallions flat if you’re using them, and scatter pearls or ripped pieces organically for a rustic effect.
4. Add Tomatoes
Over the salad, spoon the roasted tomatoes. Allow some of the greens to get coated with the juices; they offer a fantastic flavor.
5. Garnish and Drizzle
Add optional toppings, red onion (if using), and fresh basil on top. Drizzle liberally with a little olive oil and balsamic glaze.
Notes & Tips
- Make Ahead: Refrigerate the tomatoes after roasting them the day before. Before assembling, reheat a little.
- Cheese Swap: For a richer, creamier variation, you can use burrata instead of mozzarella.
- Flavor Boost: Just before serving, sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper and flaky sea salt.
- DIY Balsamic Glaze: For around 10 to 12 minutes, simmer 1 cup of balsamic vinegar with 2 tablespoons of honey or brown sugar until it has thickened by half.
- Serve with: Grilled flatbread, garlic crostini, or crusty bread.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 13g |
| Total Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
| Calcium | 20% DV |
| Vitamin C | 25% DV |
Health Benefits
- Antioxidants Galore
Lycopene, a potent antioxidant found in abundance in tomatoes, may lower the risk of cancer and heart disease.
Strong Bones and Muscles
The high protein and calcium content of mozzarella promotes muscular growth and bone density.
Heart Health
Heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and nitrates that promote circulation can be found in olive oil and greens like arugula.
Digestive Support
Tomatoes high in fiber and leafy greens promote intestinal health and digestion.
Low Carb Friendly
This salad is inherently low in carbohydrates, making it appropriate for keto or low-carb diets (for more stringent variations, skip the glaze).
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q1: Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry or grape tomatoes?
A: Yes, but use Roma or Campari tomatoes for the best sweetness and texture. Roast them for a little longer than cherry tomatoes after slicing them.
Q2: Is this salad served hot or cold?
A: Warm or room temperature is the ideal serving temperature. While the mozzarella and greens remain fresh, the roasted tomatoes should be just warmed up.
Q3: How do I make it more filling?
A: To make it a full dinner, add quinoa, shrimp, or grilled chicken.
Q4: Can I make this dairy-free or vegan?
A: Indeed! Make sure the balsamic glaze is honey-free and substitute plant-based mozzarella.
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep the ingredients apart: dry the cheese and greens, and store the tomatoes in an airtight container. To prevent sogginess, assemble just before serving.
Final Thoughts
BJ’s Tomato Mozzarella Salad is an example of how basic ingredients can have a significant impact on flavor and nutrition when prepared properly. This salad is vibrant, filling, and sophisticated enough for a dinner party but still easy enough to make on a weekday. Because of its adaptability, you can add grains, proteins, or vegan substitutes to make it your own. This copycat version is perfect whether you’re craving a restaurant-style salad or you’re looking for a quick dish to impress guests.
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