Caprese salad is a traditional Italian dish that has become popular all around the world. It is a simple salad made with fresh, ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil leaves, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. The salad is named after the island of Capri, off the coast of Naples, where it is believed to have originated. Caprese salad is a perfect summer dish that is light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor. It is also a great way to showcase the quality and flavor of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Caprese salad can be served as an appetizer, a side dish, or a light lunch, and it pairs well with a crisp white wine or a chilled rosé.
Caprese salad is a simple and refreshing Italian salad made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Here’s a recipe for a classic Caprese salad:
Ingredients:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes
- 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Wash and slice the tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick slices. Arrange them on a large platter or individual plates.
- Slice the mozzarella cheese into 1/4-inch thick slices as well. Place a slice of cheese on top of each tomato slice.
- Arrange the basil leaves on top of the cheese.
- Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve immediately and enjoy!