Tomato Mozzarella Basil
Tomato mozzarella basil, also known as Caprese salad,is a timeless and beloved Italian dish that epitomizes the beauty of simplicity in culinary art. This classic salad effortlessly combines the succulent juiciness of ripe tomatoes, the creamy richness of fresh mozzarella cheese, and the aromatic allure of fragrant basil leaves.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 8 ounces (about 225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomatoes and Mozzarella: Wash the tomatoes and pat them dry.Slice the tomatoes into rounds of about ΒΌ-inch thickness. Similarly, slice thefresh mozzarella cheese into rounds of the same thickness.
- Assemble the Salad: On a serving platter or individual plates, arrange the tomato slices and mozzarella slices alternately in a circular pattern,slightly overlapping them to create an eye-catching display. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the layers of tomatoes and mozzarella.
- Season the Salad: Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the tomato and mozzarella slices, ensuring an even distribution. If desired, add a touch of balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze for a subtle sweetness.
- Season with Salt and Pepper: Sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper over the salad to enhance the flavors.
- Serve and Enjoy: Tomato Mozzarella Basil (Caprese Salad) is best served immediately to relish the freshness of the ingredients. Enjoy the delightful harmony of flavors and textures in this classic Italian dish
Notes
For an elegant touch, you can also create individual Caprese salad stacks by layering a tomato slice, a basil leaf, and a mozzarella slice, then repeating the layers until desired height is achieved. Gently drizzle the salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and then season it with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
This simple yet elegant Tomato Mozzarella Basil recipe takes mere minutes to prepare, making it a perfect appetizer or side dish for any occasion. Enjoy the combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil in this refreshing and delightful salad that celebrates the essence of Italian cuisine.
Important Note for Tomato Mozzarella Basil (Caprese Salad) Recipe:
For the best results, use high-quality, ripe tomatoes and fresh mozzarella cheese. Look for tomatoes that are firm, juicy, and brightly colored. If available, opt for buffalo mozzarella (mozzarella di bufala) for an authentic and creamy experience.
When arranging the salad, ensure the tomato and mozzarella slices are similar in thickness to achieve a visually appealing presentation.
To enhance the flavors, use extra virgin olive oil of good quality, as it contributes to the salad's richness and aroma. If using balsamic vinegar or glaze, add it sparingly to avoid overpowering the delicate flavors of the salad.