Caprese Salad with Basil Infusion
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Italy with this Caprese Salad, showcasing fresh, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil. This colorful dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a healthy and refreshing option for any occasion. Perfect as a starter or a light meal, this salad is ideal for summer gatherings and picnics. Drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette, each bite bursts with flavor and freshness. Make it a centerpiece at your next gathering, and enjoy the compliments that will follow!
4
Servings
188
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Mozzarella cheese
1/2 lb (sliced thin)
Fresh basil
1/2 cup (chopped)
Tomatoes
4 (sliced)
Red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup (as dressing)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
Olive oil
3/4 cup (as dressing)
Instructions
1
Begin by carefully slicing the mozzarella cheese as thin as possible to maximize flavor and texture.
2
Slice the tomatoes into even rounds, ensuring they are ripe and juicy for optimum taste.
3
On a large, attractive platter, arrange the mozzarella and tomato slices in an alternating pattern to create a visually appealing dish.
4
Generously sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the layered cheese and tomatoes, enhancing the dish's aromatic qualities.
5
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chosen vinegar, salt, pepper, and olive oil until well combined to create a flavorful dressing.
6
Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette evenly over the mozzarella and tomato arrangement on the platter.
7
Allow the salad to marinate at room temperature for up to 1 hour before serving, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
Nutrition Information
17.5g
Fat
4g
Carbs
5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Caprese Salad with Basil Infusion?
It is a vibrant Italian-inspired dish featuring fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil with a zesty vinaigrette.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What are the primary ingredients?
The main ingredients include mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, tomatoes, red wine or balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
How much mozzarella cheese do I need?
You will need 1/2 lb of mozzarella cheese, sliced as thin as possible.
How many tomatoes are required?
The recipe requires 4 ripe and juicy tomatoes.
How much fresh basil should I use?
You should use 1/2 cup of chopped fresh basil.
What kind of vinegar is best for the dressing?
You can use either red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar depending on your preference.
How much olive oil is in the vinaigrette?
The recipe calls for 3/4 cup of olive oil for the dressing.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 188 calories.
How much fat is in one serving?
There are 17.5g of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate content?
There are 4g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein does this salad provide?
Each serving provides 5g of protein.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it is classified under the Vegetable category and is vegetarian-friendly.
How should the tomatoes be sliced?
The tomatoes should be sliced into even rounds for the best presentation.
How do I arrange the salad on the plate?
Arrange the mozzarella and tomato slices in an alternating pattern on a large platter.
When do I add the basil?
Generously sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the layered cheese and tomatoes before adding the dressing.
How do I prepare the vinaigrette?
Whisk together the vinegar, salt, pepper, and olive oil in a mixing bowl until the mixture is well combined.
Should the salad be marinated?
Yes, allow the salad to marinate at room temperature for up to 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
Is this a good dish for summer?
Absolutely, it is described as a refreshing option ideal for summer gatherings and picnics.
Can I serve this as a main course?
It is perfect as a starter or a light meal.
What is the sodium content?
The exact sodium content is not specified, but the recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of salt for the whole dish.
How much salt is used?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of salt, or you can adjust it to taste.
How much pepper is used?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
Why should I slice the mozzarella thin?
Slicing the mozzarella thin helps maximize the flavor and texture of the dish.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, it consists of simple slicing, layering, and whisking a basic dressing.
What makes this salad a 'Basil Infusion'?
The infusion comes from the generous use of chopped fresh basil sprinkled over the ingredients and allowed to marinate.
What is the category of this recipe?
This recipe is categorized as a Vegetable dish.
Does this salad contain cholesterol?
The specific cholesterol data is not provided in the nutritional facts.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you should prepare it at least an hour before to let it marinate, though it is best served fresh.
What does the vinaigrette add to the salad?
The zesty vinaigrette provides a burst of flavor and freshness to every bite.