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A Fresh Taste of Italy

What is Caprese Salad?

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Caprese salad is a timeless Italian classic that celebrates the beauty of simplicity. Made from just a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients—ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper—this dish bursts with vibrant flavors and colors. Originating from the picturesque island of Capri, Italy, Caprese salad is often enjoyed as an appetizer but also works wonderfully as a light lunch or side dish.

What makes Caprese truly special is how effortlessly it comes together—no cooking required. Simply slice, layer, and drizzle, and you’ll have a stunning plate that not only tastes incredible but also showcases the red, white, and green hues of the Italian flag, making it authentically charming.

Why You’ll Fall in Love With Caprese Salad:

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 10 minutes with zero cooking involved.
Fresh and Flavorful: Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil create a perfect harmony in every bite.
Visually Stunning: The vibrant layers make it a beautiful dish to impress guests.
Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with fresh vegetables, protein-rich cheese, and heart-healthy olive oil, it’s a guilt-free delight.
Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish, light lunch, or even as a delicious topping on toast or in a sandwich.

Equipment You’ll Need

Sharp knife
Cutting board
Serving plate or platter
Small spoon or drizzle bottle (optional)
Paper towels (optional)

Ingredients:

4 large ripe tomatoes (Roma or heirloom varieties work beautifully)
8 oz fresh mozzarella (preferably mozzarella balls or logs)
A handful of fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional: 1–2 teaspoons balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions:

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Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

Rinse the tomatoes under cool water and pat dry with a clean towel.
Using a sharp knife, slice them into even ¼-inch thick rounds. Consistent slices help create a visually appealing dish.
Arrange the slices on a plate for easy layering.
Pro Tip: If your tomatoes are very juicy, lay the slices on paper towels for a few minutes to absorb excess moisture and prevent sogginess.

Step 2: Slice the Mozzarella

If using mozzarella logs, slice into ¼-inch rounds to match the tomato slices.
If using mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halve them or leave whole if small.
Place them on a plate or in a small bowl.
Pro Tip: Fresh mozzarella can be slippery—use a sharp knife and slice slowly to avoid tearing.

Step 3: Prepare the Basil

Gently rinse the basil leaves and pat dry with a paper towel.
Select whole, vibrant leaves for layering, and tear a few smaller leaves if you prefer a rustic look.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

On a large serving plate, start by placing a tomato slice, followed by a slice of mozzarella, slightly overlapping.
Tuck a basil leaf between each layer—either on top or between the tomato and cheese.
Continue layering in a circle or a straight line, depending on your plate shape and presentation preference.
Pro Tip: For a stunning presentation, arrange the salad in a circular pattern on a round plate to wow your guests.

Step 5: Drizzle and Season

Evenly drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the entire salad using a spoon or drizzle bottle.
Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
If desired, add a light drizzle of balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and tang.
Pro Tip: Start with a light sprinkle of salt as fresh mozzarella is already slightly salty—adjust to your taste after tasting.

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