Description

Caprese salad is a fresh, simple, and vibrant Italian dish that celebrates the flavors of summer. Traditionally, it is made with ripe, juicy tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella (preferably buffalo mozzarella), and aromatic basil leaves. The ingredients are sliced and arranged in a circular pattern, alternating between the tomato slices, mozzarella, and basil. The salad is typically drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and sometimes balsamic vinegar or glaze, then seasoned with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. For a burst of flavor, some variations include a sprinkle of oregano or a pinch of red pepper flakes. This dish is light, refreshing, and packed with the natural flavors of the ingredients, making it an ideal appetizer or side dish for warm-weather gatherings, barbecues, or any Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Ingredients

Scale

4–5 large ripe tomatoes: Choose high-quality, vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes. Their sweetness and juiciness are essential for the dish, as tomatoes are the focal point of the salad.
1 lb fresh mozzarella (bocconcini or burrata): The creamy, milky flavor of fresh mozzarella complements the juicy tomatoes. Bocconcini (small balls of mozzarella) is commonly used, but burrata (a richer, creamier version) is also a great option for an elevated dish.
1 cup fresh basil leaves: Fresh basil provides a fragrant, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes and mozzarella. Choose vibrant, fresh leaves free from wilting or browning.
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and depth to the salad, enhancing the flavors of the tomatoes and mozzarella. Look for a smooth, fruity olive oil with a mild flavor.
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (or balsamic glaze): Balsamic vinegar offers tangy sweetness that balances the richness of the mozzarella and enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. Alternatively, balsamic glaze (a thicker, syrupy version) can be used for a more concentrated sweetness.
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper: Essential for seasoning. A pinch of salt brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients, while freshly cracked black pepper adds a touch of heat and depth.
Optional: Pine nuts or roasted red peppers: For added crunch and flavor, you can include roasted red peppers or toasted pine nuts, which provide extra texture and complement the softness of the mozzarella and tomatoes.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before assembling the salad, take a few minutes to prep your ingredients:

Tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and slice them into thick rounds. Aim for slices about 1/4-inch thick, ensuring that they are substantial enough to hold up alongside the mozzarella.
Mozzarella: If using bocconcini, slice each ball into thick rounds that match the size of the tomato slices. If using burrata, cut it into smaller chunks or tear it into pieces to distribute more easily across the salad.
Basil: Gently wash and dry the basil leaves. Pick the leaves from the stems, leaving them whole. If the leaves are large, you can tear them into smaller pieces for a more rustic look.
Optional Add-ins: If you’re using roasted red peppers or pine nuts, prepare them now. Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes until golden, being careful not to burn them.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

Now it’s time to assemble your Caprese Salad:

Layer the Tomatoes and Mozzarella: On a large serving platter, alternate slices of tomato and mozzarella, arranging them in a circular or overlapping pattern. The colors should be vibrant, with the red of the tomatoes contrasting beautifully against the white of the mozzarella.
Add the Fresh Basil: Tuck the fresh basil leaves in between the tomato and mozzarella slices. Allow the basil to fall naturally for a more rustic, organic look, or arrange it in a more structured pattern if you prefer.
Drizzle with Olive Oil and Vinegar: Once the salad is arranged, drizzle the extra virgin olive oil generously over the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Follow with the balsamic vinegar or glaze. You can drizzle it lightly for a more subtle flavor or be a little more generous if you prefer a stronger tang.
Season: Season the salad with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. This step helps to bring out the full flavor of the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
Add Optional Garnishes: If using pine nuts or roasted red peppers, scatter them on top of the salad just before serving for an added crunch and flavor boost.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy

Caprese Salad is best served immediately to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. The tomatoes and mozzarella will start to soften and release their juices, creating a natural dressing when left to sit for too long. However, if you need to make the salad ahead of time, you can prep the components and assemble them just before serving.