Italian Caprese Salad

Caprese salad is a classic Italian dish that celebrates the simple, yet sublime combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, fragrant basil, and quality olive oil. Named after the island of Capri, this salad is a perfect showcase of fresh, seasonal ingredients. The key to a great Caprese salad is using the best components you can find and letting their natural flavors shine through.

Ingredients

• 2-3 ripe heirloom tomatoes in various colors, thickly sliced
• 8 oz fresh buffalo mozzarella or burrata cheese, torn into pieces
• Handful of fresh basil leaves
• 3 tablespoons high-quality extra virgin olive oil
• Flaky sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Optional: Aged balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions

1. Remove the tomatoes and mozzarella from the refrigerator about an hour before assembling the salad to bring them to room temperature. This enhances their flavor and texture.
2. Slice the tomatoes into thick rounds and arrange them on a large platter, alternating colors if using multiple heirloom varieties.
3. Tear the mozzarella or burrata into rustic pieces and tuck them around the tomato slices.
4. Nestle whole basil leaves between the tomatoes and cheese. For larger leaves, you can tear them into smaller pieces.
5. Drizzle the olive oil generously over the salad. The oil will mix with the tomato juices to create a light dressing.
6. Sprinkle the salad liberally with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
7. Optional: For added flavor, drizzle aged balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze lightly over the top.
8. Serve immediately with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. Enjoy!

Top Tips for the Best Caprese Salad

1. Use the highest quality ingredients possible. Ripe, in-season tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil are essential.
2. Let the tomatoes and mozzarella come to room temperature before assembling the salad to bring out their best flavor and texture.
3. Tear the mozzarella and basil by hand for a rustic, authentic look.
4. Be generous with the olive oil and salt. They enhance the natural flavors of the tomatoes and cheese.
5. Traditional Caprese salad doesn’t include balsamic vinegar, but a light drizzle of aged balsamic or glaze can add a nice tanginess if desired.
6. Serve the salad immediately after preparing for the freshest flavor. Enjoy it on its own or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

With its focus on simplicity and quality ingredients, this Caprese salad recipe captures the essence of Italian cuisine. The colorful heirloom tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and generous olive oil create a harmonious dish that’s sure to impress. Follow the tips for best results and savor this classic summer salad.