Caprese-Style Wisconsin Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
Experience the vibrant flavors of Wisconsin in this Caprese-style salad featuring luscious fresh mozzarella, juicy vine-ripened tomatoes, and fragrant basil. This dish is a delightful celebration of summer produce, enhanced by a simple yet flavorful balsamic vinaigrette. Fresh mozzarella, known for its creamy texture and mild flavor, pairs perfectly with the acidity of tomatoes and the aromatic quality of basil. As the ingredients meld together, they create a harmonious medley that is both refreshing and satisfying. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or light main course, this salad embodies the essence of seasonal eating. Serve it alongside toasted baguette slices for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creaminess of the cheese.
4
Servings
120
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
vine-ripened tomatoes
2 (sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds)
fresh mozzarella cheese
8 ounces (drained and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds)
fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons (chopped)
balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
olive oil
1/4 cup
salt
1/8 teaspoon
black pepper
1 teaspoon (freshly cracked)
Instructions
1
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to create a delicious dressing. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
2
Carefully slice the ripe tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Drain the fresh mozzarella from its packaging and slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds as well.
3
On a large serving platter, alternate and arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices in an overlapping pattern for an appealing presentation.
4
Drizzle the prepared balsamic dressing evenly over the arranged tomatoes and mozzarella slices.
5
Sprinkle the chopped basil over the top, ensuring even distribution.
6
Garnish the salad with whole basil leaves for a touch of color and freshness.
7
Allow the salad to sit for 10 minutes at room temperature to let the flavors blend beautifully.
8
Serve with toasted baguette slices or your choice of crusty bread to enhance the dining experience.
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
5g
Carbs
4g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Caprese-Style Wisconsin Salad?
It is a vibrant salad featuring fresh mozzarella, vine-ripened tomatoes, and fragrant basil, enhanced by a simple balsamic vinaigrette.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What are the main ingredients for the salad?
The main ingredients include vine-ripened tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains 120 calories.
What are the ingredients in the balsamic vinaigrette?
The dressing is made from balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
How should the tomatoes be sliced?
The vine-ripened tomatoes should be sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
What type of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella cheese.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this salad is categorized as a vegetarian dish.
How long should the salad sit before serving?
The salad should sit for 10 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.
What should I serve with this salad?
It is recommended to serve the salad with toasted baguette slices or your choice of crusty bread.
How much fat is in each serving?
Each serving contains 10g of fat.
What is the carbohydrate content per serving?
There are 5g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein does this salad provide?
Each serving provides 4g of protein.
How much olive oil is required for the dressing?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of olive oil.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
You will need 2 garlic cloves, minced.
How is the basil prepared for the salad?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil and additional whole leaves for garnish.
How do I arrange the salad on a platter?
Alternate and arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices in an overlapping pattern for an appealing presentation.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 8 ingredients in this recipe.
How much balsamic vinegar is used?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar.
What kind of pepper is recommended?
The recipe specifies using 1 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper.
Is salt included in the dressing?
Yes, 1/8 teaspoon of salt is whisked into the dressing.
What is the preparation for the mozzarella?
The fresh mozzarella should be drained and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
What role does the garlic play in the dressing?
The minced garlic is whisked into the vinaigrette to add a savory depth of flavor.
Can this be served as a main course?
Yes, it can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or a light main course.
Is there any fiber in this salad?
The nutritional information provided does not list the fiber content.
What makes the Wisconsin version unique?
The recipe emphasizes the use of fresh Wisconsin-style mozzarella for a creamy texture and mild flavor.
How do I garnish the dish?
Garnish the salad with whole basil leaves for added color and freshness.
Should the dressing be prepared separately?
Yes, whisk the dressing ingredients in a medium-sized bowl before drizzling over the salad.
Is the mozzarella drained before slicing?
Yes, ensure the mozzarella is drained from its packaging before slicing.
What is the texture of the fresh mozzarella?
Fresh mozzarella is known for its creamy texture and mild flavor, which pairs perfectly with tomatoes.