Classic Caprese Salad: A Taste of Summer
As the warmth of summer unfolds, the allure of fresh and simple dishes becomes undeniable. The Classic Caprese Salad, with its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors, encapsulates the essence of summer on a plate. This iconic Italian salad pairs ripe tomatoes with creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. It’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight to the palate.
Ingredients
- Ripe Tomatoes: 1 1/2 lbs (3-4 medium), sliced 1/4 inch thick
- Fresh Mozzarella: 12-16 oz, sliced 1/4 inch thick
- Fresh Basil: 1 bunch (about 1/3 cup of leaves)
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons, for drizzling
- Sea Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
- Balsamic Glaze (optional): 2 tablespoons, or added to taste
Directions
- Arrange the Tomatoes: Begin by laying the sliced tomatoes in a single layer on a serving platter.
- Add the Mozzarella: Interleave slices of fresh mozzarella between the tomato slices.
- Incorporate Basil: Tuck whole basil leaves between the layers of cheese and tomatoes to infuse the salad with their aroma.
- Season: Sprinkle the arrangement generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Drizzle: Finish the salad by drizzling it with extra virgin olive oil. For an added touch of sweetness and tang, drizzle balsamic glaze over the top to taste.
Nutritional Information
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Calories: 280 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6
The Classic Caprese Salad is an excellent choice for a quick summer appetizer or a light meal. Its simplicity highlights the quality of the ingredients, so choosing the best ripe tomatoes, high-quality mozzarella, and fresh basil is key. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or simply enjoying a quiet meal at home, this salad promises a burst of freshness that is both invigorating and satisfying. Pair it with a chilled glass of white wine or a sparkling water for a truly delightful dining experience.
Classic Caprese Salad
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
The Classic Caprese Salad embodies the heart of Italian cuisine with its vibrant colors and simple yet profound flavors. Each component of the salad—ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil—comes together to create a dish that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and optionally, balsamic glaze, this salad offers a refreshing taste of summer that is both satisfying and light.
Ideal for any occasion, from a casual lunch to an elegant dinner party, the Italian Garden Caprese with Balsamic Glaze is not just a dish but a delightful experience. It invites you to savor each bite, appreciating the quality of fresh ingredients and the harmony of flavors. This salad can be easily assembled in minutes, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Its simplicity, combined with its rich flavors, ensures it remains a beloved classic in any culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
1 1/2 lbs ripe tomatoes, (3–4 medium) sliced 1/4” thick
12–16 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced 1/4” thick
1 bunch fresh basil, (1/3 cup basil leaves)
3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
1/2 tsp sea salt, or to taste
1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
2 Tbsp balsamic glaze, or added to taste (optional)
Instructions
Begin by arranging slices of ripe tomatoes on a serving platter.
Interleave slices of fresh mozzarella between the tomato slices.
Tuck whole basil leaves between the cheese and tomatoes.
Season the arrangement generously with sea salt and black pepper.
Drizzle the salad with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 280 Kcal