Description
Caprese salad elegantly showcases ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil in a classic Italian dish. Mediterranean flavors mingle with simple ingredients, creating a light and refreshing experience you’ll savor with each delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes
- 1 pound (454 grams) fresh mozzarella cheese
- 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
Dressing Ingredients:
- 3 – 4 tablespoons (45 – 60 milliliters) extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) balsamic vinegar or balsamic reduction
Seasoning Ingredients:
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Carefully slice ripe tomatoes and creamy mozzarella into uniform, delicate rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Create an elegant presentation by layering tomato and mozzarella slices in an overlapping, alternating pattern on a pristine serving platter.
- Gently nestle vibrant, fragrant basil leaves between each tomato and cheese layer, allowing their aromatic essence to infuse the dish.
- Generously cascade extra virgin olive oil across the salad, ensuring each slice receives a glistening coat.
- Enhance the flavors by sprinkling flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, distributing seasonings evenly.
- For an optional luxurious touch, delicately stream aged balsamic vinegar or rich balsamic reduction over the arranged salad, adding depth and complexity.
- Serve immediately at room temperature to maximize the ingredients’ fresh, bold flavors and maintain optimal texture.
Notes
- Aim for ripe, in-season tomatoes to maximize flavor and sweetness in the salad.
- Cut slices uniformly thick (about 1/4 inch) to ensure balanced texture and even presentation.
- Choose fresh, high-quality mozzarella like buffalo mozzarella for authentic taste and creamy texture.
- Chill ingredients slightly before assembling to keep the salad crisp and refreshing, especially during warm weather.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: None
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 327 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 330 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 21 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg