Caprese Salad Recipe or Tomato, Basil, and Mozzarella Salad
User Reviews
5
Caprese Salad Recipe or Tomato, Basil, and Mozzarella Salad
Description
The Caprese Salad Recipe or Tomato, Basil, and Mozzarella Salad centers on even slices of ripe tomatoes and fresh mozzarella cheese laid out attractively. Fresh Italian basil provides a fragrant herbal element, while a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a dash of kosher or sea salt enhance flavor without overpowering the simplicity of the ingredients.
Flavors are bright and refreshing, with juicy tomato sweetness, milkiness from mozzarella, and an aromatic hint from basil leaves. The salad is easy to assemble and served cold or at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.
This dish is commonly served as a starter or side dish, pairing well with Italian meals or light summer fare. It showcases seasonal fresh produce and requires good-quality ingredients for the best results.
To maintain authenticity, the notes advise against adding balsamic vinegar or glaze. The quantity of basil and cheese can be adjusted to taste, allowing for flexibility based on preferences and availability.
Ingredients
- 2 whole tomato good quality, such as heirloom, large
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella (mozzarella di bufala, if you can source it)
- 6 basil fresh- do not substitute dried, Italian, leaves
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil (top quality)
- ⅛ tsp salt (Kosher or good quality sea salt)
Instructions
- Slice the tomatoes into about ⅜ inch thick slices Then slice the mozzarella into the same sized slices.
- Now arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices into a pleasing pattern on a plate; I like to make circles. Mozzarella can be cut in half, if you'd like to use less cheese, or you can place two tomatoes, then one slice of cheese and continue in this manner.
- Now, drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil, and sprinkle with salt.
- Depending on taste, use whole, torn or chopped fresh Italian basil leaves. I prefer chopped since I find the whole leaves are just a bit too much basil flavor, but a sprig in the center or on the side looks fantastic.
Notes
- Do not use balsamic vinegar or glaze to keep the Caprese Salad authentic.
- Adjust the amount of basil leaves according to taste; fresh Italian basil is preferred over dried.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 245 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1serving | |
| Calories | 245kcal | 12% |
| Carbohydrates | 4g | 1% |
| Protein | 13g | 26% |
| Fat | 20g | 31% |
| Saturated Fat | 8g | 40% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Cholesterol | 45mg | 15% |
| Sodium | 432mg | 18% |
| Potassium | 211mg | 4% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 2g | 4% |
| Vitamin A | 974IU | 19% |
| Vitamin C | 10mg | 11% |
| Calcium | 294mg | 29% |
| Iron | 0.5mg | 3% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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