Caprese Salad

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 8

Caprese Salad is a timeless Italian dish that's all about simplicity and fresh flavors. With just a handful of ingredients, it celebrates the beauty of ripe tomatoes paired with creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil. Perfect for summer, this salad is a vibrant addition to any meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare — perfect for busy days.
  • Highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients at their peak.
  • Visually stunning with minimal effort.
  • Light yet satisfying, making it a great appetizer or side dish.

Ingredients

8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
3 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
2 tbsp balsamic glaze
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

Start by slicing your mozzarella and tomatoes into even slices. Aim for about a quarter-inch thickness to maintain a nice balance between the cheese and the fruit. Arrange the slices on a large plate, alternating between mozzarella and tomato to create a lovely pattern. This not only looks good but ensures you get both in every bite.

Next, take your fresh basil leaves and tuck them between the layers of mozzarella and tomato. This little step ensures every bite has that burst of basil aroma. Now, grab your olive oil and drizzle it evenly over the salad, making sure each slice is lightly coated.

Season the salad with a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Feel free to adjust according to your taste. Lastly, just before you're ready to serve, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top. This finishing touch adds a lovely sweetness and a touch of acidity that brings everything together.

Tips & Tricks

  • For best results, use tomatoes that are at room temperature; they have more flavor than chilled ones.
  • If fresh mozzarella is too wet, pat it dry with paper towels to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
  • Make your own balsamic glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens; this can enhance the flavor even more.

Serving Suggestions

This Caprese Salad makes a wonderful starter or side dish. Pair it with a crusty baguette to soak up all the delicious juices. It also complements grilled meats or fish beautifully, adding a fresh and light contrast to richer flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is best for this dish due to its aroma and flavor, but in a pinch, you can use a small amount of dried basil.
Is there a substitute for balsamic glaze?
You can use a reduction of balsamic vinegar or a splash of balsamic vinegar directly. It won't be as sweet, but it will still add depth.

Ingredients Explained

Fresh mozzarella is the creamy anchor of this salad, providing a mild, milky flavor that complements the vibrant tomatoes. Choose high-quality mozzarella for the best texture and taste. Ripe tomatoes are the star of the show, offering juiciness and natural sweetness. Go for heirloom or vine-ripened varieties if possible. Fresh basil leaves introduce an aromatic element that ties everything together with their peppery notes. Balsamic glaze adds a tangy sweetness and a bit of depth, while extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavors with its fruity richness. Finally, a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper balances and elevates the flavors.

Simplified Instructions

1. Arrange the slices of mozzarella and tomatoes on a large plate, alternating them to create a visually appealing pattern.
2. Tuck the fresh basil leaves between the layers of mozzarella and tomatoes.
3. Drizzle the olive oil evenly across the salad, ensuring each slice is coated.
4. Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste over the salad.
5. Finish by drizzling the balsamic glaze over the top just before serving.

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