Transport yourself to a sun-drenched Italian terrace with a single bite of this classic Insalata Caprese. There’s a beautiful magic in its simplicity—just three core ingredients that, when perfectly ripe and fresh, create a symphony of flavor. This isn’t just a salad; it’s a celebration of summer’s finest produce. Forget complicated recipes; the beauty of Caprese lies in honoring the quality of each component. Let’s create a dish that’s as vibrant and refreshing as it is elegant.
Ingredients
• 4 large, ripe heirloom or beefsteak tomatoes, about 2 lbs / 900g total
• 16 oz / 450g fresh mozzarella ball, preferably buffalo mozzarella
• 1 large bunch fresh basil
• 2 tbsp / 30 ml high-quality extra-virgin olive oil
• Coarse sea salt or kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the tomatoes and mozzarella. Wash and dry the tomatoes, then slice them into 1/4-inch / 0.5cm thick rounds. Slice the fresh mozzarella into similar-sized rounds.
2. Arrange the salad. On a large platter or four individual plates, alternate and overlap the slices of tomato and mozzarella. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the layers.
3. Garnish and season. Drizzle the entire salad generously with high-quality extra-virgin olive oil. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt and a few grinds of fresh black pepper.
4. Serve immediately. This salad is best enjoyed right away to ensure the are at their freshest.
Nutritional Information
• Serves: 4
• Cost Per Serving: $2.89
• Calories: 196
• Fat: 13g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 11g
• Fiber: 3.5g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 160mg
Pro Tips
• for the Perfect Caprese
• Use the best you can find. Since this salad is so simple, the quality of your tomatoes, mozzarella, and olive oil will truly shine through.
• Serve at room temperature. For the best flavor, take the mozzarella out of the fridge about 30 minutes before serving.
• Add a drizzle of high-quality balsamic glaze just before serving for a sweet and tangy counterpoint to the creamy cheese.
• Don’t be afraid to try different tomato varieties. Heirloom tomatoes in various colors make for a stunning presentation.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this Caprese salad vegan
A: Absolutely. To make a vegan Caprese, simply substitute the dairy mozzarella with a high-quality plant-based mozzarella alternative. Many brands offer excellent options made from cashews, soy, or coconut oil that slice beautifully and provide a creamy texture.
Q: How can I add more protein to this vegetarian salad
A: To make this a more protein-rich vegetarian dish, you can add a cup of chickpeas or cannellini beans. Serving it alongside a portion of quinoa or with crusty bread topped with a white bean spread also effectively boosts the protein content.
Q: What makes this a complete vegetarian meal
A: While delicious on its own, you can easily turn this salad into a complete vegetarian meal. Serve it with a generous portion of crusty bread for dipping, pair it with a simple pasta dish, or serve it over a bed of arugula and quinoa for added greens and protein.
