Caprese Salad, or Insalata Caprese, is an Italian classic that celebrates fresh, quality ingredients. This simple yet elegant dish highlights juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, making it the perfect appetizer, side dish, or light meal. With its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation, Caprese Salad is a must for any table.
Equipment:
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Serving platter or plate
- Small whisk (optional, for dressing)
Ingredients:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes (heirloom or vine-ripened preferred)
- 1 pound fresh mozzarella (sliced)
- Fresh basil leaves (about 20–30 leaves)
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into even slices, about ¼-inch thick. Wash and pat dry the basil leaves. - Assemble the Salad:
On a serving platter, arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices alternately in a slightly overlapping pattern. Tuck fresh basil leaves between each slice of tomato and mozzarella. - Season the Salad:
Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the salad. If using, drizzle balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness. Sprinkle with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. - Serve Immediately:
Serve the Caprese Salad fresh at room temperature to fully enjoy the flavors.
Tips:
- Use the freshest, ripest tomatoes you can find for the best flavor.
- Buffalo mozzarella or burrata can be used for an extra creamy texture.
- To make your own balsamic glaze, simmer ½ cup balsamic vinegar with 1 tablespoon honey or sugar until thickened.
Caprese Salad is the epitome of simplicity and elegance. With its harmonious blend of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, this dish is a true celebration of summer produce and Italian cuisine. Enjoy it as a starter, side, or even a light main course!
Caprese Salad Recipe
Fresh, simple, and bursting with flavor, this classic Caprese Salad recipe combines ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, finished with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze.
Equipment
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Serving platter or plate
- Small whisk (optional, for dressing)
Ingredients
- 4 large ripe tomatoes heirloom or vine-ripened preferred
- 1 pound fresh mozzarella sliced
- Fresh basil leaves about 20–30 leaves
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze optional
- Salt to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into even slices, about ¼-inch thick. Wash and pat dry the basil leaves.
- Assemble the Salad:
- On a serving platter, arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices alternately in a slightly overlapping pattern. Tuck fresh basil leaves between each slice of tomato and mozzarella.
- Season the Salad:
- Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the salad. If using, drizzle balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness. Sprinkle with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
- Serve Immediately:
- Serve the Caprese Salad fresh at room temperature to fully enjoy the flavors.
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