Introduction:
Caprese Salad, or Insalata Caprese, is a classic Italian dish that embodies the essence of simplicity and freshness. It features ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This salad is a celebration of high-quality ingredients, typically served as a starter or a light, refreshing dish on a warm day. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a staple in Italian cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe tomatoes (preferably heirloom or vine-ripened), sliced
- 250g fresh mozzarella (buffalo mozzarella or bocconcini), sliced
- 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze (optional)
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the ingredients:
Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into even slices, about 1 cm thick. If using bocconcini, slice them in half. Wash and dry the fresh basil leaves. - Assemble the salad:
On a large serving platter, alternate slices of tomato and mozzarella in an overlapping pattern. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the layers of tomato and mozzarella. - Season and garnish:
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil generously over the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. If using, drizzle the balsamic vinegar or glaze lightly over the top. Season the salad with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. - Serve immediately:
Serve the salad fresh with some crusty bread on the side. The freshness of the ingredients makes this dish shine, so it’s best to serve right away.
Health Notes:
- Caprese Salad is a healthy, low-carb dish that’s rich in protein from the mozzarella and antioxidants from the tomatoes. It’s naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by substituting vegan mozzarella. The olive oil provides healthy fats, while the basil adds a burst of nutrients like vitamins K and C.
Serving Suggestions:
- Caprese Salad is best enjoyed as a starter or light lunch. Serve with crusty bread, olive tapenade, or alongside grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial meal. Pair it with a glass of chilled white wine or a sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing combination.
Tips:
- High-quality ingredients: Since Caprese Salad relies on minimal ingredients, it’s essential to use the best-quality tomatoes, mozzarella, and olive oil you can find. Opt for vine-ripened tomatoes and fresh buffalo mozzarella for authenticity.
- Balsamic glaze: While traditional Caprese Salad doesn’t use balsamic vinegar, a light drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a sweet, tangy contrast to the creamy mozzarella and ripe tomatoes.
- Tomato choice: Use a mix of colorful heirloom tomatoes for a visually stunning and flavorful salad. Each variety brings its own unique taste and texture to the dish.
