Classic Caprese Salad
Experience the vibrant flavors of Italy with this Classic Caprese Salad, a beautifully simple dish that showcases the best of fresh ingredients. This recipe highlights the lusciousness of ripe beefsteak tomatoes combined with creamy mozzarella cheese and aromatic fresh basil. Drizzled with a rich blend of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, this salad is not just a feast for the eyes but also a delicious addition to any meal. Perfectly quick to prepare, it makes the ideal appetizer or side dish for gatherings, outdoor barbecues, or a refreshing summer meal. Share this delightful medley with friends and family for a taste of the Mediterranean!
4
Servings
170
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
beefsteak tomatoes
4 (sliced)
fresh mozzarella cheese
1 lb (sliced)
fresh basil
8 sprigs (whole)
extra virgin olive oil
4 tablespoons (none)
balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon (none)
salt
to taste (none)
black pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
Start by slicing the beefsteak tomatoes and the fresh mozzarella cheese into uniform slices, approximately 1/3-inch thick for even presentation.
2
On a large serving platter, begin arranging the slices of tomatoes and mozzarella in an alternating pattern, creating a beautiful display.
3
Lightly season the arranged salad with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the flavors.
4
Garnish the top with fresh basil leaves, allowing their aroma to complement the dish.
5
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
6
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the layered salad just before serving, ensuring that each bite is infused with flavor.
7
Serve immediately and enjoy this classic Italian dish with family and friends!
Nutrition Information
15g
Fat
5g
Carbs
7.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Classic Caprese Salad?
It is a vibrant Italian salad that features ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
What type of tomatoes are best for this recipe?
This recipe recommends using 4 beefsteak tomatoes for their large size and juicy texture.
What kind of cheese is used in a Caprese salad?
You should use 1 lb of fresh mozzarella cheese, ideally sliced into uniform pieces.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the Classic Caprese Salad is a vegetarian dish.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 170 calories per serving.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains about 15g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 5g of carbohydrates in each serving.
How much protein is in this salad?
Each serving provides 7.5g of protein.
What goes into the dressing for this salad?
The dressing is a simple blend of 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar.
How thick should I slice the tomatoes and mozzarella?
For an even presentation, slice them approximately 1/3-inch thick.
How do I arrange the salad on a platter?
Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices in an alternating pattern on a large serving platter.
When should I add the dressing?
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the layered salad just before serving to ensure maximum freshness.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil sprigs are recommended for their specific aroma and flavor profile in this dish.
Should I season the salad with salt and pepper?
Yes, you should lightly season the arranged salad and the dressing with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
Is this a quick recipe to make?
Yes, it is a very quick recipe that requires no cooking and simple assembly.
What occasions is this salad good for?
It is ideal for gatherings, outdoor barbecues, or as a refreshing summer side dish.
How many ingredients are required in total?
There are 7 ingredients in this recipe.
Do I need to whisk the dressing separately?
Yes, whisk the olive oil and balsamic vinegar in a small bowl before drizzling it over the salad.
Can I store leftovers of the Caprese salad?
While best served immediately, you can refrigerate leftovers, though the basil may wilt and the tomatoes may lose some texture.
Can I use balsamic glaze instead of balsamic vinegar?
Yes, balsamic glaze can be used if you prefer a thicker, sweeter finish to the salad.
What is the origin of the Caprese salad?
It is a classic dish from Italian cuisine, specifically from the region of Campania.
Is extra virgin olive oil necessary?
Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its rich flavor, which is a key component of this simple dish.
How many basil sprigs should I use?
The recipe calls for 8 sprigs of fresh basil.
Can I add other ingredients?
While the classic version is simple, some variations include a drizzle of pesto or added avocado.
Is this salad served hot or cold?
Caprese salad is served fresh at room temperature or slightly chilled.
Can I prepare the slices in advance?
You can slice the ingredients a bit ahead of time, but do not assemble or dress the salad until you are ready to serve.
What does the description say about the salad?
It describes the dish as a beautiful medley of Mediterranean flavors that is a feast for the eyes.
What is the recipe ID?
The internal recipe ID is classic-caprese-salad.