How to pronounce caprese

Picture this: you’re at a charming Italian restaurant, and the waiter lists off the specials of the day, casually mentioning a dish of vibrant, fresh caprese salad. You feel a pang of uncertainty–how exactly do you pronounce “caprese”? You don’t want to embarrass yourself when expressing your excitement for a classic Italian dish. This moment is all too common for those wanting to immerse themselves in culinary experiences but struggling with pronunciation. Let’s break it down so you can confidently order your caprese and impress everyone at the table.

The word “caprese” is pronounced as “kah-PREH-zeh.”

To elaborate, “caprese” is derived from the Italian island of Capri, where the dish originated. The pronunciation starts with the “ca” sounding like “kah,” followed by the stressed second syllable “pre,” pronounced as “PREH,” and finishing with the soft “se,” which sounds like “zeh.” Remember that the ‘e’ at the end is typically pronounced in Italian, contributing to the distinct rhythm and flow of the word. This emphasis on the syllables not only helps with pronunciation but also pays homage to the beautiful flavors of the dish, which often includes fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. Next time you’re at an Italian eatery, you’ll not only know what to order, but you’ll also impress the staff with your authentic pronunciation!