🛒 Ingredients
- 🍅 4 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 🧀 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 🌿 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 🫒 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 🍇 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional)
- 🧂 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 🌶️ 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
🍳 Instructions
Assemble the Salad
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into even rounds. Wash and pat the basil leaves dry.
- Layer the Salad:
- On a serving platter, arrange the tomato slices, mozzarella slices, and basil leaves in an alternating pattern, slightly overlapping them in a circular or linear arrangement.
Season and Garnish
- Drizzle with Olive Oil:
- Lightly drizzle the olive oil over the salad for a rich, flavorful finish.
- Optional Balsamic Glaze:
- If using, drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad in a zigzag pattern for a sweet and tangy touch.
- Season:
- Sprinkle sea salt and freshly ground black pepper evenly over the tomatoes and mozzarella.
Serve
- Presentation:
- Serve immediately as a starter, side dish, or light main course.
💡 Tips and Variations
- 🌿 Tomato Selection: Use heirloom tomatoes for a variety of colors and enhanced flavor.
- 🧄 Garlic Infusion: Rub the plate with a clove of garlic before assembling for subtle garlicky notes.
- 🥗 Add Greens: Serve the salad on a bed of arugula or mixed greens for added texture.
- 🍓 Fruit Twist: Substitute tomatoes with sliced strawberries for a unique, sweet variation.
🍹 Serving Suggestions
Pair this Caprese Salad with crusty Italian bread, a glass of crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio, or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing meal.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This Caprese Salad celebrates simplicity with its vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and classic Italian flavors. It’s easy to prepare, visually stunning, and a perfect dish for any occasion, from casual lunches to elegant dinner parties.
