The Classic Caprese Salad

This refreshing Italian salad is a celebration of simple, fresh flavors: ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all brought together with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze. It's perfect as a light appetizer, side dish, or even a quick lunch.

Servings: 2-4 people Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 0 minutes Total time: 10 minutes Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

• For the Salad:

  1. 2-3 medium ripe tomatoes (~300-450 g), such as Roma, beefsteak, or heirloom

  2. 250 g (8.8 oz) fresh mozzarella (bocconcini, ciliegine, or a log), drained

  3. 15-20 fresh basil leaves

• For the Dressing: 4. 2 tbsp (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil 5. 1 tbsp (15 ml) balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade) 6. Pinch of flaky sea salt 7. Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Equipment

• Sharp knife

• Cutting board

• Serving platter or individual plates

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tomatoes and Mozzarella (3 minutes): If using a large mozzarella log, slice it into rounds about 0.5 cm (¼ inch) thick. If using smaller bocconcini or ciliegine, you can halve them or leave them whole. Slice the tomatoes into similar-sized rounds or wedges, depending on their shape.

2. Arrange the Salad (3 minutes): On a large serving platter or individual plates, artfully arrange the sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves. You can alternate them in a pattern or simply layer them attractively.

3. Drizzle the Dressing (2 minutes): Evenly drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the arranged salad. Then, gently drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top.

4. Season and Serve (2 minutes): Finish the salad with a generous pinch of flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh flavors!

Tips & Variations

• Quality Matters: Since Caprese salad has so few ingredients, the quality of each one truly shines. Opt for the freshest, ripest tomatoes, high-quality fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil.

• Chill Tomatoes (Slightly): While some prefer room temperature, chilling your tomatoes for about 30 minutes before slicing can enhance their refreshing quality, especially on a hot day.

• Make Your Own Balsamic Glaze: To make your own, simmer 1 cup (240 ml) of balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until it reduces by half and thickens to a syrupy consistency (about 10-15 minutes). Let it cool before using.

• Add Protein: For a more substantial meal, add thinly sliced prosciutto or grilled chicken breast alongside the salad.

• Cheese Swap: Experiment with burrata cheese instead of fresh mozzarella for an even creamier, richer texture.

• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the salad for a subtle warmth and spice.

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving (based on 2 servings)

• Calories: ~450-500 kcal

• Protein: ~25-30 g

• Carbohydrates: ~10-15 g

• Fat: ~35-40 g

Shopping List

• Tomatoes

• Fresh mozzarella

• Fresh basil

• Extra virgin olive oil

• Balsamic glaze

• Sea salt

• Black pepper

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Quick summary: Classic Caprese Salad with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, olive oil, and balsamic glaze.