Description
Caprese Salad, also known as Insalata Caprese, is a fresh and simple Italian classic made with ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic for a light and elegant dish.
Ingredients
3–4 ripe tomatoes (heirloom, vine-ripened, or Roma), sliced
8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
Fresh basil leaves
2–3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1–2 tbsp balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Slice the tomatoes and fresh mozzarella into even rounds.
- On a large serving plate or platter, alternate slices of tomato and mozzarella, slightly overlapping them for presentation.
- Tuck whole basil leaves between the slices or sprinkle chopped basil evenly over the top.
- Drizzle extra-virgin olive oil evenly over the salad, followed by a light drizzle of balsamic glaze or vinegar.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately for best texture, or chill briefly before serving.
Notes
Use high-quality, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
Buffalo mozzarella or burrata can be substituted for a creamier texture.
Cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls (bocconcini) can be used for mini versions.
Avoid chilling too long as tomatoes may become mealy.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
- Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
