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Caprese Salad

5 from 14 votes
Toss together ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil, add a pinch of salt and pepper, and if you're feeling fancy, a splash of balsamic vinegar. Voila! You've got yourself a delicious Caprese Salad—simple, fresh, and oh-so-tasty. Enjoy!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 255
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 ripe tomatoes, sliced 1/4-inch thick
  • 1 lb fresh mozzarella, sliced 1/4-inch thick
  • ½ cup fresh basil leaves (about 20 to 30 leaves)
  • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional), for drizzling
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Method
 

  1. On a large, shallow platter, begin layering alternating slices of tomatoes and mozzarella.
  2. As you layer, place a fresh basil leaf between each tomato and mozzarella slice.
  3. Once all the slices are arranged, drizzle the salad with extra-virgin olive oil.
  4. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. If desired, add a final touch by drizzling balsamic vinegar over the top.
  6. Serve immediately and revel in the delicious simplicity of your Caprese Salad!

Notes

Pro Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, try roasting the tomatoes before assembling your Caprese Salad. Simply slice the tomatoes, toss them with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes until they're softened and slightly caramelized. Let them cool before layering them with the mozzarella and basil. This step adds a depth of flavor and sweetness to your salad that will elevate it to new heights.
Variation: If you're looking to switch things up, consider adding a twist to your Caprese Salad by incorporating different types of tomatoes. Instead of using only traditional red tomatoes, mix in some heirloom or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and additional flavor. You can also experiment with different varieties of cheese, such as smoked mozzarella or creamy burrata, to add a unique touch to your salad. Feel free to get creative and tailor the recipe to your taste preferences—all while still enjoying the classic flavors of Caprese Salad.