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Caprese Salad

Caprese Salad is a quintessential Italian dish that celebrates the beauty of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Originating from the island of Capri, this simple yet elegant salad embodies the colors of the Italian flag—red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil. The key to an unforgettable Caprese Salad lies in selecting ripe, juicy tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper enhance the natural flavors, creating a harmonious balance of sweetness, creaminess, and herbal freshness. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal, this salad is best enjoyed during the summer months when tomatoes are at their peak. Serve it with crusty bread or alongside grilled meats for a delightful Mediterranean experience.

Starter | Italian | Egg-Free | Gluten-Free | Nut-Free | Pescatarian | Shellfish-Free | Soy-Free | Vegetarian | Caprese Salad | Knife | Basil | Extra Virgin Olive Oil | Mozzarella | Tomato | Chopping | Mixing | No-Cook | Stirring | Summer | Under 15 Minutes
Time to complete

Prep

10min

Cook

0 minutes

Wait

0 minutes

Total

10min

Ingredients (Makes 6 portions)
  • 600 g (21 oz) fresh mozzarella, sliced or roughly torn
  • 1 kg (2.2 lb) ripe tomatoes, sliced or halved if using cherry tomatoes
  • 15-16 large basil leaves, finely chopped (or more if using small-leaf basil)
  • 50 ml (3 tbsp) extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Nutrition Information (per 100g)
  • Calories: 250
  • Fat: 20
  • Protein: 14
  • Carbohydrates: 5
  • Fiber: 1
Directions

Assembly

  • 1. Arrange the tomato slices in a circular pattern on a serving platter, leaving space in the center.
  • 2. Place the mozzarella in the center of the platter.

Seasoning

  • 3. Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the tomatoes and mozzarella.

Finishing Touches

  • 4. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil evenly over the salad.
  • 5. Scatter the chopped basil leaves over the top and serve immediately.
Cookix's Secrets

Alternative Cooking Method

  • Grill the tomatoes and mozzarella briefly for a warm, smoky twist.

Bold Flavor Enhancements

  • Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and a dash of lemon zest for extra brightness.

Healthier Variation

  • Replace mozzarella with avocado slices for a dairy-free alternative.

Ingredient Selection

  • Use high-quality fresh mozzarella, such as buffalo mozzarella, for the best flavor and texture.

Seasonal Tweaks

  • In colder months, use sun-dried tomatoes for a concentrated flavor.

Serving Suggestion

  • Pair with crusty bread or drizzle with balsamic glaze for added depth of flavor.

Tomato Choice

  • Opt for heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes for maximum sweetness and juiciness.