There’s something truly delightful about a dish that combines simplicity and flavor so effortlessly. This Easy Caprese Salad Recipe is a perfect example. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, it captures the essence of summer in every bite.
Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil come together with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a refreshing and satisfying salad that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or a side, this classic combination is sure to impress and leave everyone craving more.
Steps
- Gather your ingredients: fresh mozzarella, juicy heirloom tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves. Ensure the tomatoes are ripe and flavorful, as they are the star of this dish.
- Slice the heirloom tomatoes and fresh mozzarella into thick pieces, ensuring not to squish the cheese. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.
- Arrange the sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and whole or torn basil leaves on a serving platter. The order and pattern are up to you, but alternating the layers creates a visually appealing presentation.
- Drizzle high-quality extra-virgin olive oil over the arranged ingredients. This adds a rich, fruity flavor that complements the fresh ingredients.
- Season the salad with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. These simple seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the tomatoes and cheese.
- Serve the salad immediately. Optionally, add ingredients like peaches, avocado, or a balsamic glaze for variations on the classic recipe.
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 medium heirloom tomatoes, sliced
- 1 (8-ounce) ball of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Flaky sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
FAQ
- What makes a Caprese salad taste so good?
- The secret to a delicious Caprese salad lies in using high-quality ingredients. Opt for juicy, in-season tomatoes, fresh mozzarella packed in water, vibrant basil leaves, and a flavorful extra-virgin olive oil. These elements come together to create a simple yet flavorful dish.
- Can I use different types of tomatoes in a Caprese salad?
- Absolutely! Using a variety of heirloom tomatoes in different colors and shapes can enhance the visual appeal and taste of your salad. Cherry tomatoes can also be a great addition.
- What are some variations of the traditional Caprese salad?
- You can experiment with different ingredients by adding peaches, avocados, mint, or even a balsamic glaze. You can also swap mozzarella with burrata or top the salad with toasted pine nuts or basil pesto for added flavor and texture.
- What type of olive oil should I use for a Caprese salad?
- It’s best to use a high-quality, 100% extra-virgin olive oil for its strong, fruity flavor, which complements the other ingredients beautifully. It’s not recommended to substitute it with other types of oil.
- How should I season a Caprese salad?
- Season your Caprese salad with freshly ground black pepper and flaky sea salt like Maldon for the best results. Avoid using iodized salt as it can impart a bitter taste to the dish.
Tips
- Select Quality Ingredients: Opt for the freshest, juiciest heirloom tomatoes you can find, and ensure your mozzarella is soft and packed in water for the best texture and flavor.
- Use Fresh Basil Leaves: Only fresh basil will do for this recipe. Use whole leaves or tear larger ones gently to evenly distribute their aromatic flavor throughout the salad.
- Invest in Good Olive Oil: A high-quality extra-virgin olive oil with a fruity flavor will make a significant difference in taste, so it’s worth using the best you can find.
- Enhance with Sea Salt: Use flaky sea salt, such as Maldon, to season the salad. Avoid iodized salt, which can impart a bitter taste to this simple, fresh dish.
Equipment
- Pepper Grinder – for freshly ground black pepper.
- Flaky Sea Salt (such as Maldon sea salt) – if not commonly available at home, can be found online.
- Good Quality Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – for a quality finish to the dish, which might not be a staple in every kitchen.
