Introduction
Lina Vexley, a self-taught chef and passionate food enthusiast, discovered the magic of Caprese salad during a trip to Italy. On a warm afternoon in the Amalfi Coast, she was introduced to this simple yet delightful salad of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. Lina was captivated by how such a few ingredients could taste so fresh and satisfying. She returned home determined to recreate this dish, and ever since, it’s become a staple in her kitchen. Now, she’s excited to share her version of the Caprese salad, perfect for any meal or as a refreshing appetizer.
Recipe
Caprese Salad
Equipment
- Knife
- Serving Platter
Ingredients
- 3 medium tomatoes sliced
- 1 ball fresh mozzarella sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves whole
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze for drizzling
- 1 tsp sea salt for sprinkling
- 1 tsp black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
- Arrange the sliced tomatoes and mozzarella on a serving platter, alternating between the two.
- Place fresh basil leaves between the tomato and mozzarella slices for a beautiful presentation.
- Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic glaze over the salad.
- Sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this light, refreshing salad!
Notes
Nutrition
How to Make Caprese Salad
To make a classic Caprese salad, start by preparing the tomatoes and mozzarella. Slice the tomatoes into thick rounds and cut the mozzarella into similar-sized slices. Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices on a serving platter, alternating them for a visually appealing look. Then, take fresh basil leaves and place them between the tomato and mozzarella slices to enhance the freshness of the dish.
Once the salad is arranged, drizzle extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze over the top. The olive oil adds richness, while the balsamic glaze provides a touch of sweetness and acidity. To finish, sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper for extra flavor. This salad is best served immediately while it’s fresh, but you can also chill it for a few minutes before serving.
Caprese salad is perfect for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or as an appetizer for a summer meal. The combination of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil is unbeatable. For an extra flavor boost, feel free to add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. This dish is as simple as it is delicious!
Conclusion
Caprese salad is a timeless classic that combines fresh, simple ingredients to create a flavorful and refreshing dish. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or enjoying it on a warm summer day, this salad is sure to delight your taste buds. Lina Vexley’s version of this beloved Italian salad is light, colorful, and incredibly satisfying. With just a few ingredients, you can bring the taste of Italy to your table in minutes!