Easy Caprese Salad
Recipe Overview
Overview
Caprese salad is a quintessential summer dish that showcases the beauty of fresh ingredients. The combination of ripe heirloom tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil creates a symphony of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying. The key to a great Caprese salad lies in the quality of the ingredients; using the best tomatoes and mozzarella you can find will elevate this simple dish to new heights.
The preparation is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for quick summer meals or gatherings. Slicing the tomatoes and mozzarella into equal portions ensures that each bite is perfectly balanced. Layering the ingredients with fresh basil not only adds flavor but also a vibrant touch to the presentation.
Drizzling the salad with high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall taste, while a sprinkle of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper rounds out the flavors beautifully. This salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of summer produce that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a light meal.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this Easy Caprese Salad is sure to impress. It’s a dish that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine—simple, fresh, and delicious.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Wash heirloom tomatoes, remove the stem, and slice into about a fourth of an inch thickness.
Tip: Use heirloom tomatoes for peak flavor in summer.
Tip: Store tomatoes at room temperature for better flavor.
Layer sliced tomatoes and mozzarella cheese, aiming for a one-to-one ratio.
Tip: Choose high quality mozzarella, preferably whole milk or buffalo mozzarella.
Tip: For fewer calories, use a four to one ratio of tomatoes to mozzarella.
Tip: Use fresh basil for the best flavor.
Tuck fresh basil leaves between the mozzarella cheese and tomatoes.
Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the salad.
Tip: Opt for extra virgin olive oil for richer flavor.
Sprinkle sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper on top.
Tip: Add dried oregano for extra flavor if desired.
Plate the salad with one or two pieces of mozzarella and tomato per serving.
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Using heirloom tomatoes enhances the flavor and quality of the salad.
- •Fresh basil leaves add an intense flavor that complements the mozzarella and tomatoes.
- •Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its rich flavor and health benefits.
- •Serving the salad at room temperature maximizes the taste of the tomatoes.
