Name: Classic Caprese Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 3 large ripe tomatoes (heirloom or Roma work well); 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced into rounds); Fresh basil leaves (about 15–20 leaves); 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional but recommended); Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

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There’s something magical about the simplicity of a Caprese salad. With its vibrant colors and fresh, summery flavors, this Italian classic is more than just a salad, it’s a celebration of seasonal produce.

It all started centuries ago on the sun-kissed island of Capri, where fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil were abundant.

Locals discovered that combining these three humble ingredients with a drizzle of olive oil brought out a beautifully balanced taste.

Over time, this rustic dish evolved into what we now cherish as the Caprese salad an iconic symbol of Italian cuisine and Mediterranean freshness.

Why You’ll Love This

Unbeatable Freshness – With just a handful of fresh ingredients, this salad bursts with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil.
No Cooking Required – Ideal for hot summer days when turning on the stove is a no-go.
Elegant Yet Easy – Perfect for both quick meals and impressive starters for dinner parties.
Healthy and Light – A naturally gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly recipe packed with nutrients and flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: $8–$10

Equipment:

Sharp knife
Cutting board
Serving platter or plate

Ingredients

3 large ripe tomatoes (heirloom or Roma work well)
8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced into rounds)
Fresh basil leaves (about 15–20 leaves)
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional but recommended)
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Slice the Tomatoes and Mozzarella: Cut the tomatoes and mozzarella into ¼-inch thick slices. Try to keep them roughly the same size for an even presentation.
Arrange on a Platter: On a large serving plate, alternate and overlap the tomato slices, mozzarella slices, and basil leaves in a circular or linear pattern.
Season Generously: Sprinkle with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the flavor.
Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil evenly over the top.
Add Balsamic Glaze (Optional): For extra depth and sweetness, lightly drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving.
Serve Immediately: Best enjoyed fresh at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 220
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 300mg
Calcium: 200mg

Tips for Success

Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh, ripe tomatoes and real mozzarella di bufala make all the difference.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Tomatoes and mozzarella taste best when not chilled.
Don’t Overdo the Basil: Let it complement, not overpower. Use whole leaves rather than chopped.
Serve Immediately After Assembling: The salad can release water and lose flavor if it sits too long.

Common Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Caprese salad is best served immediately, but you can prep the ingredients separately and assemble right before serving.

Can I use cherry tomatoes instead?
Absolutely! Halved cherry tomatoes and mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini) make a great variation.

What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?
You can reduce balsamic vinegar over low heat until thickened or simply skip it. The salad is delicious with just olive oil too.

Is this dish keto or low-carb?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbohydrates and fits well into a keto-friendly diet.

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