This vibrant Caprese salad is the epitome of simple, fresh Italian cooking. It relies on the quality of its few ingredients: ripe, juicy tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil leaves. The combination of sweet, acidic tomatoes with rich, mild cheese creates a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Drizzled with high-quality olive oil and finished with cracked black pepper, this dish is incredibly refreshing and satisfying. It serves beautifully as a light lunch, a quick side dish for pasta or grilled meats, or an elegant starter for a summer dinner party. Because it requires no cooking, it is also perfect for hot days when you want to keep the kitchen cool.
Tomato, Basil, And Mozzarella Salad
Description
This vibrant Caprese salad is the epitome of simple, fresh Italian cooking. It relies on the quality of its few ingredients: ripe, juicy tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil leaves. The combination of sweet, acidic tomatoes with rich, mild cheese creates a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Drizzled with high-quality olive oil and finished with cracked black pepper, this dish is incredibly refreshing and satisfying. It serves beautifully as a light lunch, a quick side dish for pasta or grilled meats, or an elegant starter for a summer dinner party. Because it requires no cooking, it is also perfect for hot days when you want to keep the kitchen cool.Ingredients
Directions
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Slice tomatoes crosswise into 1/2-inch-thick slices.
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Arrange 2-3 tomato slices on each salad plate.
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Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top of the tomatoes.
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Cut fresh basil leaves into strips and top each tomato with basil.
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Drizzle olive oil over the salad and add a dash of cracked pepper.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 20.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.2g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 5.7mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 4.4g2%
- Dietary Fiber 1.4g6%
- Sugars 3.0g
- Protein 1.0g2%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For best flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes and high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
Serve immediately after assembling to prevent the tomatoes from becoming watery and the basil from wilting.
Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) can be sliced instead of using shredded cheese for a more traditional presentation.
