Fresh & Vibrant Tomato Mozzarella Caprese Salad
Stunningly Simple Tomato Mozzarella Caprese Salad Recipe
Celebrate the season’s best with this visually appealing and incredibly simple Caprese salad, featuring ripe tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. It’s the perfect appetizer to enjoy with wine or as a light, refreshing side dish. This recipe highlights the natural, fresh flavors of its ingredients, making it ideal for both special occasions and everyday enjoyment.
Salad Ingredients
- 1 ripe medium tomato
- 125g fresh mozzarella cheese (drained)
- A few fresh basil leaves
- A little basil pesto (optional, for added flavor)
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1-2 tsp fresh lemon juice (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp honey or agave syrup (adjust to taste)
- 3 pinches of salt
- A pinch of freshly ground black pepper
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1-2 tsp fresh lemon juice (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp honey or agave syrup (adjust to taste)
- 3 pinches of salt
- A pinch of freshly ground black pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Thoroughly wash the tomato. You can sprinkle it with baking soda and gently scrub, or soak it briefly in water with a splash of vinegar before rinsing. If you’re using organic tomatoes, a simple rinse under running water is sufficient.
Step 2
Prepare the fresh basil leaves. Gently pluck the leaves from their stems, then soak them in cold water for a moment to revive their crispness, followed by a rinse under running water.
Step 3
Drain the washed basil leaves and tomato well. Use paper towels or a colander to pat them dry. Excess moisture can dilute the salad’s flavor, so ensuring they are dry is key.
Step 4
Remove the stem end of the tomato. Slice the tomato into rounds about 0.5cm to 1cm thick. You can also halve them and then slice, or cut them into quarters if they are very large.
Step 5
Slice the fresh mozzarella cheese to a similar thickness as the tomato slices. Be gentle, as it can crumble if sliced too thinly.
Step 6
Now, let’s make the delicious balsamic dressing. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, 1-2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of honey. Add 3 pinches of salt and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. Whisk everything together with a fork or a small whisk until well emulsified.
Step 7
Arrange the sliced tomatoes and mozzarella cheese on a serving plate, alternating them in an appealing pattern. Try arranging them in a circular or fanned-out design, like blooming petals.
Step 8
Tuck fresh basil leaves between the tomato and mozzarella slices, or artfully place them on top. The aromatic basil will enhance the salad’s overall flavor profile.
Step 9
For an extra layer of flavor, dot small amounts of basil pesto around the salad. This will add a deeper, more intense basil essence. While optional, it’s recommended for a more complex taste.
Step 10
Drizzle the prepared balsamic dressing evenly over the entire salad. Finish with another grind of fresh black pepper over the top for a final touch of aroma and visual appeal. Your beautiful Caprese salad is ready!
Step 11
Enjoy the harmonious blend of fresh ingredients! This beautiful and delicious Caprese salad is sure to make your mealtime delightful.
