Fresh Caprese Salad
Simple and elegant salad with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze.
Details
Ingredients
- 2 large heirloom tomatoes, sliced
- 200g fresh mozzarella ball, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- 1
Arrange tomato and mozzarella slices alternately on a platter.
- 2
Tuck fresh basil leaves between slices.
- 3
Drizzle generously with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
- 4
Season with flaky salt and pepper.
- 5
Serve at room temperature.
About This Recipe
The iconic Insalata Caprese, a dish that whispers of sun-drenched Italian summers, hails from the island of Capri in the Bay of Naples. More than just a salad, it's an edible homage to the Italian flag, with its vibrant red tomatoes, milky white mozzarella, and verdant green basil leaves arranged in harmonious layers. What makes Caprese truly special is its profound simplicity: it relies entirely on the unimpeachable quality of its few, pristine ingredients. There's no cooking involved, making ingredient selection paramount. The art lies in choosing perfectly ripe, fragrant heirloom tomatoes, which offer a spectrum of color and a balanced sweetness, paired with a fresh mozzarella, ideally fior di latte or buffalo mozzarella, for its creamy texture and delicate tang. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and a final flourish of a good balsamic glaze elevate the natural flavours. While traditionally served as an antipasto, it's also a delightful light lunch or a refreshing side to grilled fish or chicken. Common variations might include adding a sprinkle of oregano, some olives, or even thinly sliced red onion, but the classic combination remains a testament to the Italian philosophy of celebrating peak-season produce.
Tips & Tricks
- • To achieve the best flavour, ensure your tomatoes are at room temperature, not straight from the fridge. This allows their natural sweetness and acidity to shine fully, making for a more robustly flavoured salad.
- • For a delightful variation, consider using a mix of colourful cherry tomatoes and bocconcini for a more bite-sized, rustic presentation. Alternatively, a few leaves of peppery arugula scattered among the layers can add a pleasant contrast.
- • Caprese salad is best assembled just before serving to prevent the tomatoes from weeping and the basil from wilting. If preparing slightly in advance, slice ingredients and store separately, assembling no more than 30 minutes before serving.
- • This vibrant salad makes an excellent light lunch or a refreshing appetizer. Pair it beautifully with crusty ciabatta bread to soak up the delicious juices, or serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete, elegant meal.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (approximate)