Caprese-Inspired Heirloom Tomato Medley
This Caprese-Inspired Heirloom Tomato Medley is a vibrant and refreshing side dish that captures the essence of summer. It requires just 5 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal accompaniment for any meal, especially grilled salmon. This dish showcases the beauty and flavor of fresh heirloom tomatoes paired with creamy mozzarella, aromatic basil, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil. Perfect for gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner, this delightful medley is not just a visual feast, but a culinary experience that celebrates the abundance of seasonal produce.
2
Servings
150
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Heirloom tomato
1 large (cut in half)
Mozzarella cheese
2 pieces (round, cut 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick)
Basil leaves
4 (chiffonade into thin strips)
Balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons (drizzled to taste)
Extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons (drizzled to taste)
Salt
to taste (served on the side)
Instructions
1
Begin by selecting a large, ripe heirloom tomato. Cut it in half horizontally. If the tomato is unstable, slice a small portion off the bottom to create a flat base.
2
Place a thick slice of fresh mozzarella cheese (1/8 to 1/4-inch) atop each tomato half, allowing the cheese to melt into the warmth of the tomato.
3
Chiffonade the basil leaves by stacking them, rolling them tightly, and then slicing into thin strips. Divide the basil evenly and sprinkle half over each mozzarella-covered tomato half.
4
Generously drizzle extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the assembled tomatoes, ensuring balance without having to mix them beforehand.
5
Serve immediately with salt on the side, allowing each guest to season to their preference. Enjoy this stunning dish as a perfect complement to your meal!
Nutrition Information
12g
Fat
4g
Carbs
5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Caprese-Inspired Heirloom Tomato Medley?
It is a vibrant and refreshing side dish that features fresh heirloom tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
This recipe requires only 5 minutes to prepare.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 2 servings.
What are the primary ingredients?
The main ingredients are heirloom tomato, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, and salt.
How should I prepare the heirloom tomato?
Cut the large heirloom tomato in half horizontally; if it is unstable, slice a small portion off the bottom to create a flat base.
What thickness should the mozzarella cheese be?
The mozzarella should be cut into thick slices between 1/8 to 1/4-inch thick.
How do I chiffonade the basil leaves?
Stack the basil leaves, roll them tightly, and then slice them into thin strips.
Should I mix the oil and vinegar before drizzling?
No, you can drizzle them separately over the assembled tomatoes to ensure a proper balance.
How is the salt served?
Salt is served on the side so each guest can season the dish to their personal preference.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 150 calories.
How much fat is in one serving?
There are 12 grams of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate content?
Each serving contains 4 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein does this dish provide?
This dish provides 5 grams of protein per serving.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this is a vegetarian-friendly dish.
What main dish pairs well with this medley?
It is an ideal accompaniment for grilled salmon.
Is this considered a summer dish?
Yes, it is designed to capture the essence of summer and seasonal produce.
How many basil leaves are needed?
The recipe calls for 4 fresh basil leaves.
How much balsamic vinegar is used?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar.
How much extra virgin olive oil is required?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
Should the mozzarella be melted?
The cheese should be allowed to melt slightly into the warmth of the tomato halves.
When should this dish be served?
It should be served immediately after assembly for the best flavor and texture.
Is this recipe difficult to make?
No, it is classified as an easy side dish.
How many total ingredients are involved?
There are a total of 6 ingredients in this recipe.
What type of vinegar is recommended?
Balsamic vinegar is recommended for this Caprese-inspired dish.
Can I use this for a party?
Yes, it is perfect for gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner.
What is the preparation style for the basil?
The basil should be chiffonaded into thin strips.
How many pieces of mozzarella are used per tomato?
The recipe uses 2 pieces of mozzarella, one for each tomato half.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
The nutritional data does not specify any sugar content for this recipe.
What kind of oil should be used?
Extra virgin olive oil is specified for the best flavor.
What makes this dish a 'medley'?
It is a visual and culinary combination of fresh heirloom tomatoes, mozzarella, and aromatic herbs.