Description
This classic Caprese salad recipe features fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves, elegantly drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic reduction. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a simple yet flavorful Italian appetizer that highlights the quality of fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- Fresh mozzarella cheese: 250 grams (about 9 ounces), sliced
- Ripe tomatoes: 3 medium-sized, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves: 1 cup, whole
Dressing and Seasoning
- Extra virgin olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Balsamic reduction: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: to taste
- Black pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Gather Ingredients: Collect all the fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil leaves, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic reduction, salt, and black pepper needed for the salad.
- Slice Ingredients: Slice the ripe tomatoes and fresh mozzarella cheese into thick, even rounds to maintain texture and create an appealing presentation.
- Arrange on Plate: On a serving plate, alternate the tomato slices, mozzarella slices, and basil leaves in an attractive layered or circular pattern to showcase the colors and freshness.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic reduction evenly over the arranged salad to enhance the flavor with a balance of richness and tang.
- Season: Finish by seasoning the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting flavors as desired before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh, high-quality mozzarella and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- To make your own balsamic reduction, simmer balsamic vinegar in a saucepan until it thickens to a syrup consistency.
- This salad is best served immediately but can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours before serving.
- For a twist, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a few olives.
