Print

Easy Caprese Salad

Easy Caprese Salad
Print Recipe

Easy Caprese Salad is a vibrant, fresh Italian classic that pairs juicy ripe tomatoes with creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil. This light yet satisfyingly refreshing salad is perfect for summer meals, offering a bright combination of flavors with minimal preparation time.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • Ripe tomatoes (firm, juicy heirlooms or vine-ripened, sliced 1/4-inch thick)
  • Fresh mozzarella balls or slices (soft, fresh, sliced to match tomato thickness)
  • Fresh basil leaves (whole, to taste)

Seasoning and Dressing

  • Extra virgin olive oil (high-quality, for drizzling)
  • Balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze (light drizzle for tangy sweetness)
  • Sea salt (to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Tomatoes and Mozzarella: Start by washing the tomatoes and slicing them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Next, slice your fresh mozzarella into similar-sized rounds to keep the proportions balanced.
  2. Arrange the Ingredients: On a large plate or platter, alternate slices of tomato and mozzarella in an overlapping pattern. This layering not only looks beautiful but also ensures every bite has the ideal combination of flavors.
  3. Add Fresh Basil: Tuck whole basil leaves between the tomato and mozzarella slices. Use as many leaves as you like depending on how herbaceous you prefer the salad.
  4. Season and Dress: Sprinkle sea salt and freshly ground black pepper evenly over the salad, then drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Finish with a light drizzle of balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze for a perfect zing.
  5. Serve Immediately: For the best flavor experience, serve the salad fresh. The contrast of cool mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil tastes brightest right after assembly.

Notes

  • Choose the freshest ingredients: buy ripe tomatoes and fresh mozzarella the same day you plan to serve.
  • Bring mozzarella and tomatoes to room temperature before assembling for enhanced flavor release.
  • Use robust extra virgin olive oil to elevate the dish.
  • Add balsamic glaze sparingly, tasting as you go to avoid overpowering the flavors.
  • Add basil just before serving to keep its vibrant color and prevent wilting.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese Salad, Italian Salad, Fresh Tomato Salad, Mozzarella, Basil, Summer Salad, No-cook Salad, Gluten Free

Find it online: https://mydishez.com/easy-caprese-salad-2/