Gourmet Caprese Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
This exquisite Gourmet Caprese Salad, inspired by Giada De Laurentiis's 'Everyday Italian', showcases the freshness of vibrant tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Perfectly balanced with a zesty lemon vinaigrette, this dish is a summer delight that elevates any meal. The use of assorted tomatoes adds delightful variety in flavor and texture, making it an ideal appetizer or a refreshing side for grilled meats. Enjoy the simple yet elegant allure of this Italian classic that's easy to prepare and bursting with taste.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fresh lemon juice
3 tablespoons (Juice from about 1/2 lemon)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon, plus more to taste (Add additional salt as needed for seasoning)
Fresh ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon, plus more to taste (Add additional pepper as needed for seasoning)
Extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons (Use a high-quality oil for best flavor)
Assorted tomatoes
1 1/4 lbs (Includes a mix of vine-ripened, plum, cherry, grape, and yellow tea tomatoes)
Fresh mozzarella cheese
6 ounces (Drained and sliced)
Fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons (Thinly sliced)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper until well combined.
2
Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking continuously to create a smooth dressing. Set the dressing aside to let the flavors meld.
3
Prepare the tomatoes by slicing regular tomatoes into 1/2-inch thick slices and cutting plum tomatoes into wedges. Halve the cherry, grape, and yellow tea tomatoes.
4
On a large platter, artfully arrange the assorted tomatoes and slices of fresh mozzarella cheese. Drizzle the prepared lemon vinaigrette evenly over the top.
5
Finish by sprinkling the thinly sliced fresh basil leaves over the salad, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for the best flavor and presentation.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gourmet Caprese Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette?
It is an elevated Italian salad featuring a variety of tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, topped with a zesty lemon-based dressing.
What ingredients are required for the lemon vinaigrette?
You will need fresh lemon juice, salt, fresh ground black pepper, and high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
What types of tomatoes are recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for a mix of vine-ripened, plum, cherry, grape, and yellow tea tomatoes for diverse textures and flavors.
How should I prepare the regular tomatoes?
Regular tomatoes should be sliced into 1/2-inch thick slices for the best presentation.
How do I cut the plum tomatoes?
Plum tomatoes should be cut into wedges.
What is the best way to prepare cherry and grape tomatoes?
These smaller tomatoes should simply be halved.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor, though bottled can be used if necessary.
What kind of mozzarella is best for this salad?
Fresh mozzarella cheese that has been drained and sliced is the ideal choice for this recipe.
How do I emulsify the dressing?
Slowly drizzle the extra virgin olive oil into the lemon juice mixture while whisking continuously.
How should the basil be prepared?
The fresh basil leaves should be thinly sliced into a chiffonade before being sprinkled over the salad.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this Gourmet Caprese Salad is 100% vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make this salad in advance?
It is best to serve the salad immediately after dressing it to prevent the tomatoes from becoming soggy.
What is the inspiration for this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by Giada De Laurentiis's 'Everyday Italian'.
Can I add other seasonings?
Yes, you can add additional salt and pepper to taste just before serving.
What is the role of extra virgin olive oil in the recipe?
It provides a smooth, rich base for the vinaigrette and complements the acidity of the lemon.
How many people does this recipe serve?
While not specified, 1 1/4 lbs of tomatoes usually serves 4 to 6 people as an appetizer.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is essential for the aroma and flavor of a Caprese salad; dried basil is not recommended.
Are yellow tea tomatoes required?
No, they add color variety, but you can substitute them with more cherry or grape tomatoes if unavailable.
What should I serve with this salad?
It makes an excellent appetizer or a refreshing side dish for grilled meats.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How do I arrange the platter?
Artfully arrange the assorted tomatoes and mozzarella slices before drizzling the dressing over them.
What does whisking the oil slowly do?
It helps create a smooth, stable emulsion so the oil and juice do not separate quickly.
Can I add balsamic glaze?
While this recipe uses a lemon vinaigrette, a balsamic glaze can be added for extra sweetness if desired.
Is this a good summer dish?
Yes, it is described as a summer delight that showcases vibrant, fresh produce.
What makes this 'gourmet'?
The use of five different tomato varieties and a fresh citrus vinaigrette elevates it beyond a standard Caprese.
Can I use vegan mozzarella?
Yes, a high-quality vegan mozzarella alternative can be used to make this dish dairy-free.
Should I peel the tomatoes?
No, the skins should be left on for texture and to help the slices hold their shape.
Can I add garlic to the dressing?
While not in the original recipe, a small amount of minced garlic can be added for a sharper flavor.
How long can I store the leftover dressing?
The lemon vinaigrette can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Why is salt added to the lemon juice first?
Dissolving the salt in the acidic juice before adding the oil ensures it is evenly distributed throughout the dressing.