Caprese Salad
Caprese Salad is a classic Italian dish that combines fresh, vibrant ingredients—tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and extra-virgin olive oil—into a refreshing, light dish.This salad is ideal for summer gatherings, a side dish, or even a light main course.The simplicity of the ingredients makes it a perfect choice for showcasing high-quality produce.
Equipment
- Knife (1, sharp for slicing)
- Cutting Board (1, for chopping vegetables)
- Plate or Serving Dish (1, for serving)
- Measuring Spoon (1, for olive oil)
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes medium-sized, sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves torn or whole
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil for drizzling
- Sea salt to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomatoes and Mozzarella: Slice the tomatoes into rounds, about 1/4-inch thick.Similarly, slice the mozzarella into rounds of the same thickness.
- Arrange the Ingredients: On a large plate or serving dish, alternate the slices of tomato and mozzarella in a circular pattern or in rows, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
- Add Fresh Basil: Tear the fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces or keep them whole and sprinkle them generously over the tomatoes and mozzarella.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil: Lightly drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil over the salad.
- Season the Salad: Sprinkle with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. If you like, you can drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the top for extra sweetness and tang.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the salad fresh, ideally right after assembling it to enjoy the full freshness of the ingredients.
Notes
- Quality Ingredients: The success of this salad relies heavily on the quality of the ingredients. Use the freshest, most flavorful tomatoes and mozzarella you can find for the best results.
- Optional Add-ins: Feel free to add a handful of arugula or a few slices of prosciutto for a different twist on the traditional recipe.
- Perfect for Summer: This is an ideal dish for a light, refreshing appetizer or side during the warm months when tomatoes are in peak season.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store the ingredients separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to a day. Assemble just before serving to maintain freshness.