Caprese Salad Recipe
Caprese salad is best enjoyed fresh, so assemble it just before serving to maintain the crispness of the ingredients. You can also customize the recipe by adding extras like sliced avocado, olives, or a sprinkle of dried oregano for variation.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes preferably heirloom or vine-ripened
- 1 ball fresh mozzarella cheese about 8 ounces
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Balsamic glaze optional
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:Wash the tomatoes and basil leaves thoroughly. Pat them dry with paper towels.Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella cheese into 1/4-inch thick slices.
- Assemble the Salad:Arrange the tomato slices and mozzarella cheese slices alternately on a serving platter, overlapping them slightly.Tuck fresh basil leaves between the tomato and cheese slices.
- Season the Salad:Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the tomato and mozzarella slices.Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the salad to taste.
- Optional: Add Balsamic Glaze:For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle balsamic glaze over the assembled salad. This adds a sweet and tangy contrast to the fresh ingredients.
- Serve:Serve the Caprese salad immediately as a refreshing appetizer or side dish. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil!