Caprese Salad
Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil layered and drizzled with olive oil and balsamic for a simple, classic Caprese salad.
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 4 tomatoes, medium, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 16 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Sea salt, to taste
- Black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze, optional
- 1-2 tsp pomegranate molasses, optional
Method:
Start Cooking- Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into even rounds.
- Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices on a serving platter, slightly overlapping them.
- Tuck the basil leaves between the layers.
- Sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper.
- Drizzle with olive oil. If using, add a very light drizzle of balsamic glaze or pomegranate molasses just before serving.
- Serve right away, preferably at room temperature. Bon appétit.
Kitchen Tools:
- Large serving platter
Notes:
From the table
- Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes since they are the star of the dish.
- Let the tomatoes sit at room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
- Add the salt and olive oil just before serving so the salad stays fresh and not watery.
- Pomegranate molasses is stronger than balsamic glaze. Use it lightly so it adds brightness without overpowering the salad.
- Use heirloom tomatoes for more color and flavor.
- Swap in buffalo mozzarella for a richer, creamier texture.
- Add a few arugula leaves for a peppery twist.
- Skip the balsamic glaze for a more classic version.
- Swap balsamic glaze for a light drizzle of pomegranate molasses for a tangy, slightly fruity twist.
- Serve as a light appetizer, a simple lunch with crusty bread, or alongside grilled chicken, fish, or pasta.
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Nutrition:
Calories: 465 kcal | Carbohydrates: 10 g | Protein: 26 g | Fat: 36 g | Saturated Fat: 16 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 15 g | Cholesterol: 90 mg | Sodium: 717 mg | Potassium: 387 mg | Fiber: 2 g | Sugar: 6 g | Vitamin A: 1949 IU | Vitamin C: 17 mg | Calcium: 590 mg | Iron: 1 mg
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Caprese salad
WHY WE LOVE IT
Tomatoes bring freshness, sweetness, and acidity all at once, which is exactly what makes Caprese salad so satisfying with so few ingredients.
A LITTLE STORY
Caprese salad comes from Italy and is traditionally made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, reflecting the colors of the Italian flag. It is one of those dishes that shows how good ingredients can do all the work.
DID YOU KNOW?
A classic Caprese is usually dressed very simply with olive oil and salt. Balsamic glaze is popular in many modern versions, but it is not always included in the traditional style.