Imagine a dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite—a vibrant symphony of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella di bufala, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with luscious extra virgin olive oil. Welcome to the world of Caprese con Mozzarella di Bufala! This Italian classic is not just a salad; it’s a celebration of fresh, high-quality ingredients that come together in a stunning presentation. Perfect for a quick appetizer or a light summer side, this recipe takes just 10 minutes to prepare, making it an irresistible choice for both casual gatherings and elegant dinners. Ready to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds? Let’s dive into the art of crafting this delightful dish!
Ingredients
- 4 large ripe tomatoes
- 250g mozzarella di bufala
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Carefully wash the ripe tomatoes under cool running water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Using a sharp serrated knife, slice the tomatoes into uniform 1/4-inch thick rounds. Arrange the tomato slices on a clean serving platter, slightly overlapping.
- Remove the mozzarella di bufala from its packaging and drain any excess liquid. Using a sharp knife, slice the mozzarella into similar thickness as the tomatoes, creating delicate, even rounds.
- Gently place the mozzarella slices alternating between the tomato slices, creating a beautiful, colorful pattern across the platter.
- Pluck fresh basil leaves from their stems, ensuring they are clean and dry. Tear larger leaves into smaller pieces if needed, maintaining their natural, rustic appearance.
- Scatter the fresh basil leaves generously over the tomato and mozzarella arrangement.
- Drizzle high-quality extra virgin olive oil evenly over the entire dish, ensuring each slice gets a light coating.
- Sprinkle sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, using a light hand to enhance the natural flavors without overwhelming them.
- Let the salad rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving at room temperature.
- Serve immediately as a refreshing appetizer or light summer side dish, preferably with crusty Italian bread to absorb the delicious olive oil and tomato juices.
Tips
- Choose the Best Ingredients: The success of your Caprese salad relies heavily on the quality of your ingredients. Opt for the ripest tomatoes you can find and authentic mozzarella di bufala for the best flavor.
- Slice with Precision: Use a sharp serrated knife to slice your tomatoes and mozzarella evenly. Consistent thickness not only enhances the presentation but also ensures a balanced taste in every bite.
- Layer Creatively: Don’t be afraid to get artistic with your arrangement! Alternate the tomato and mozzarella slices in a circular pattern or create a checkerboard design for a visually stunning effect.
- Freshness is Key: Use fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor. Tearing the leaves instead of chopping them helps release their essential oils and adds a rustic touch to your dish.
- Drizzle with Care: When adding olive oil, a little goes a long way. Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil and drizzle it gently to avoid overpowering the fresh ingredients.
- Season Lightly: Remember, the goal is to enhance the natural flavors of the tomatoes and mozzarella. A pinch of sea salt and a dash of freshly ground black pepper is all you need.
- Let it Rest: Allow your salad to sit for a few minutes before serving. This brief resting period helps the flavors meld beautifully, creating a more harmonious dish.
- Serve with Style: Pair your Caprese salad with crusty Italian bread, perfect for soaking up the delicious olive oil and tomato juices—your guests will thank you!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 306kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 30mg
