Name: Savory Tomato and Mozzarella Galette (Caprese Galette) Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 20 min
Cook time: PT-497192H25M50S
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed; ¼ cup cold water; 5 ounces mozzarella cheese, crumbled or sliced into circles; 3 medium ripe heirloom tomatoes; 2-3 cherry or plum tomatoes; ½ teaspoon dried basil; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; Fresh basil leaves for serving; 1 egg yolk; Splash of water

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If you have a soft spot for fresh, flavorful, and visually stunning dishes, then the Savory Tomato and Mozzarella Galette (Caprese Galette) Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. This rustic yet elegant galette celebrates the vibrant colors and rich tastes of heirloom tomatoes paired with creamy mozzarella, all wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust. It’s an irresistible combination that feels both comforting and fancy, perfect for sharing with friends on a sunny afternoon or impressing family at dinner. Every bite bursts with freshness and herbaceous notes, making this galette not just a dish but an experience you’ll want to savor again and again.

Ingredients You'll Need

A clear glass bowl on a white marbled surface filled halfway with a crumbly, pale yellow mixture that looks soft and slightly grainy in texture. The bowl is round and transparent, showing the details of the mixture on the bottom and sides. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of the Savory Tomato and Mozzarella Galette (Caprese Galette) Recipe comes down to simple, fresh ingredients that perfectly balance each other. Each component is essential: the flaky crust provides a buttery, crunchy base, while tomatoes and mozzarella bring juicy, creamy textures bursting with flavor. Herbs and seasonings weave through, bringing the whole dish to life.

1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender, flaky galette crust.
¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
½ cup cold unsalted butter (cubed): Adds richness and flakiness when cut into the flour.
¼ cup cold water: Brings the dough together without making it tough.
5 ounces mozzarella cheese, crumbled: Soft and mild cheese that melts beautifully with the tomatoes.
3 medium ripe heirloom tomatoes: These colorful tomatoes offer bright, juicy sweetness and texture.
2-3 cherry or plum tomatoes: Adds a burst of extra sweetness and charming pops of color.
½ teaspoon dried basil: Brings a fragrant herbal note reminiscent of classic Caprese flavors.
½ teaspoon dried thyme: Provides subtle earthy depth to complement the tomatoes.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps meld the herbs into the filling.
½ teaspoon salt: Draws out moisture and enhances the tomatoes’ natural sweetness.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and complexity.
Fresh basil for serving: A fresh garnish that adds vibrant color and aromatic flavor.
1 egg yolk: Gives the crust a beautiful, golden sheen when brushed on before baking.
Splash of water: Mixed with the egg yolk to make a smooth glaze.

How to Make Savory Tomato and Mozzarella Galette (Caprese Galette) Recipe

A round flat dough sheet with light beige color is placed on a white marbled surface. On the dough, there are two layers of thick, white cheese pieces and bright red tomato slices spread evenly, with the cheese and tomatoes arranged in a slightly overlapping pattern. The edges of the dough are folded over the filling on one side in a crimped pattern, partially covering the tomatoes and cheese. The top of the cheese and tomatoes is sprinkled with small, dark dried herb flakes, adding texture and color contrast. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Making the Dough

Start by mixing flour and salt in a bowl to set the stage for the crust. Next, add cold, cubed butter and blend it into the flour using your fingers or a pastry blender until it resembles coarse crumbs — this is key for that perfect flaky texture. Then, sprinkle in the cold water and gently bring the dough together into a smooth ball. Wrap it up and chill for at least an hour to help the butter firm up again, which is critical for flakiness.

Step 2: Preparing the Tomatoes

While the dough chills, slice the heirloom tomatoes and sprinkle them with salt. Resting them on paper towels for 20-30 minutes allows excess moisture to drain away, preventing a soggy galette crust later. Remember to pat them dry before assembling. Slice the mozzarella into nice rounds, ready to nestle perfectly between the juicy tomato slices.

Step 3: Mixing the Herb Infusion

Whisk together dried basil, thyme, black pepper, and olive oil. This mixture will bathe the tomatoes during assembly, infusing the savory layers with those classic Italian herbs, while adding a lovely luster and flavor boost that ties the entire galette together.

Step 4: Rolling and Assembling the Galette

Roll out your chilled dough into a rough 12-inch circle on parchment paper — don’t stress about perfect edges; rustic charm is the goal. Lay down a layer of heirloom tomato slices in the center, leaving a good border around the edges. Brush the herbs and olive oil mixture over the tomatoes generously, then intersperse the sliced mozzarella and scatter cherry tomatoes on top for extra bursts of sweetness and color. Fold the dough edges up over the filling to create a beautiful, rustic frame.

Step 5: Finishing Touches and Baking

Mix your egg yolk with a splash of water and gently brush this glaze over the exposed crust to give it a warm, golden hue and an inviting shine. Bake the galette at 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes until the crust is deeply golden and the tomatoes are tender and bursting with flavor. Let it cool slightly before slicing into this delicious masterpiece.

How to Serve Savory Tomato and Mozzarella Galette (Caprese Galette) Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves scattered on top right before serving not only add a pop of green but also provide that unmistakable aromatic punch that completes the Caprese vibe. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also elevate each bite.

Side Dishes

This galette pairs wonderfully with a simple mixed green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette, or a bowl of chilled gazpacho during warm weather. Light, fresh sides keep the focus on the bold flavors of the galette while ensuring your meal feels balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the galette as a centerpiece at brunch, slicing it into rustic wedges for guests to pick up with their hands. You can also add a drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving for sweetness and tang that play beautifully against the rich cheese and tomatoes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover galette can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Cover it well to keep the crust crisp and the tomatoes fresh tasting, making it easy to enjoy as a quick lunch or snack on the go.

Freezing

While the dough can be frozen before baking, it’s best to freeze the galette fully baked to preserve the textures and flavors. Wrap it tightly in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will bring back the crispiness of the crust and warm the filling thoroughly without making it soggy.

FAQs

Can I use regular tomatoes if I don’t have heirloom?

Absolutely! While heirloom tomatoes offer vibrant flavors and colors, regular ripe tomatoes like beefsteak or vine-ripened will also work well in this galette. Just make sure they’re juicy and fresh for the best results.

Is there a way to make the crust more tender?

Yes! Keeping the butter and water very cold is crucial. You can also add a tablespoon of cold sour cream or yogurt to the dough to make it extra tender and flaky without sacrificing flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for pastries. Be sure to check for any binding agents like xanthan gum in the blend to help maintain the structure of the crust.

Can I add other vegetables to this galette?

Feel free to get creative! Thin slices of zucchini, roasted red peppers, or caramelized onions can enhance the flavor and make the galette even more colorful and satisfying.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The entire process, including chilling time for the dough and baking, typically takes about two hours. Most of that is hands-off time, perfect for prepping other parts of your meal or simply relaxing.

Final Thoughts

This Savory Tomato and Mozzarella Galette (Caprese Galette) Recipe is like a breath of fresh Italian air. It brings together simplicity, freshness, and rustic charm in a way that makes every meal feel special. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or a casual get-together, it’s sure to delight taste buds and create lasting memories. Give it a try — your kitchen will thank you for the incredible aroma and your guests will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients You'll Need