Caprese Salad

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!

5 from 14 votes

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Course: Salad

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: Basil Leaves, Caprese Salad, Easy Recipe, Italian recipe, Mozzarella, Tomatoes

Prep Time: 10

Total Time: 10

Servings:

Calories: 255kcal

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

Instructions

On a large, shallow platter, begin layering alternating slices of tomatoes and mozzarella.
As you layer, place a fresh basil leaf between each tomato and mozzarella slice.
Once all the slices are arranged, drizzle the salad with extra-virgin olive oil.
Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.
If desired, add a final touch by drizzling balsamic vinegar over the top.
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.

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