Classic Italian Caprese Salad
Classic Italian Caprese Salad combines ripe beef tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, extra-virgin olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. This colourful no-cook salad is ready in only 10 minutes.
Equipment
- Serving plates
Ingredients
- 4 large Beef Tomatoes ripe and sliced
- 4 balls Low-Fat Mozzarella 4 ounces each and sliced
- 1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves loosely packed
- 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
- ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper freshly ground
Instructions
- Arrange alternating slices of tomato and mozzarella on four serving plates.
- Scatter the fresh basil leaves over the tomatoes and mozzarella.
- Drizzle each portion with balsamic vinegar.
- Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil.
- Season with freshly ground black pepper.
- Serve immediately.
Notes & Wine Advice
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Caprese salad immediately as an appetizer, light lunch, or side dish. It pairs well with crusty Italian bread, grilled chicken, fish, pasta, or roasted vegetables. Add a small bowl of olives for a simple Italian-style lunch.Recipe Notes
Use ripe tomatoes at room temperature for the best flavour. Drain the mozzarella thoroughly before slicing so excess liquid does not collect on the plates. Add the basil shortly before serving because cut or bruised leaves darken quickly.Variations
Use cherry tomatoes and mozzarella pearls for individual portions or party skewers. Add avocado, arugula, peaches, roasted peppers, or prosciutto. Replace the balsamic vinegar with balsamic glaze for a sweeter and more concentrated finish.Make-Ahead Tips
Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella shortly before serving and refrigerate them separately. Assemble and dress the salad at the last moment. Once dressed, the tomatoes release moisture and the basil gradually loses its fresh appearance.Wine Advice
A crisp Pinot Grigio complements the fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella. A dry Sauvignon Blanc provides enough acidity to balance the olive oil and cheese.Nutrition values
Serving: 1 plate | Calories: 320 kcal | Carbohydrates: 13 g | Protein: 25 g | Fat: 20 g | Saturated Fat: 9 g | Sodium: 510 mg | Sugar: 8 g