Caprese Salad
A classic Caprese salad is a simple Italian dish featuring alternating slices of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves, drizzled generously with good quality extra virgin olive oil, sea salt, and fresh black pepper; some variations add balsamic glaze for extra sweetness. The key is using fresh, high-quality ingredients like ripe heirloom tomatoes, creamy buffalo mozzarella, and fragrant basil, arranging them artfully on a platter, and serving immediately for a fresh taste.
Servings 6 people
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs Ripe tomatoes (3-4 medium) sliced 1/3” thick
- 12-16 oz Fresh mozzarella sliced 1/3” thick
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 1/2 teaspoon honey
- 1 bunch Fresh basil (1/2 cup basil leaves)
- 1/4 cup Extra virgin olive oil
- Sea salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat then reduce heat to low and let simmer until thickened and reduced down to nearly 2 Tablespoons, about 8-11 minutes. Pour into small bowl and let cool to room temperature, about 10 minutes. Note: You can substitute 2 Tablespoons of your favorite store bought Balsamic Glaze for these ingredients and step..
- Start by layering slices of tomatoes on a rimmed serving platter. Tuck slices of cheese between each tomato so both are visible then tuck whole basil leaves between the cheese and tomatoes. Arrange the slices so you can see every layer.
- Just before serving, season generously with salt and pepper, drizzle all over with extra virgin olive oil, and drizzle with 2 Tbsp balsamic reduction or store bought balsamic glaze.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
This is also delicious with avocados slices, or a little minced garlic. Another option is to omit the balsamic glaze/reduction if preferred.