Caprese Salad, also known as "Insalata Caprese" is a classic Italian Salad, originating in Capri, Italy. The stars of this Salad are juicy ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and sweet basil. It is usually arranged on a plate alternating tomatoes and mozzarella slices, seasoned with salt and pepper, then drizzled with a good olive oil and balsamic vinegar reduction. This salad is summertime on a plate for sure!
The beauty is that you can change things up a bit and make this salad free-style, but still keep it classic. You only need a handful of fresh ingredients, and it comes together in a matter of minutes. All you need is a warm, fresh out of the oven, crisp sourdough bread (I love sourdough with olives) and a glass of red wine...
A great serving suggestion is to accompany a Caprese salad with your favorite Pasta dish. Yum!
I love the fact that this Caprese Salad is low carb and gluten free. It makes the perfect recipe to bring to any occasion. Almost everyone can enjoy it, regardless of special diet.
CAPRESE SALAD INGREDIENTS:
To make this Caprese Salad, you will need these 5 ingredients:
- Tomatoes: I recommend ripe, juicy, in-season tomatoes. Any heirloom variety, or grape tomatoes are lovely.
- Mozzarella: Try to splurge on a really good authentic mozzarella ball for the perfect taste and texture. You will usually find these packed in water (Buffalo mozzarella is great), it makes all the difference!
- Fresh Basil: Add lots of it! Pluck the leaves from the plant right before serving. They add so much aroma to this salad. The more the merrier!
- Salt & Pepper: Don't forget to season your tomatoes!
- Olive Oil: Use the best Olive oil you can find. Opt for a cold-pressed, extra virgin olive oil.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Will give this salad a lovely sweet and pungent flavor. You can either use store-bought, or easily make your own balsamic vinegar reduction. Tip: Dip some sourdough bread into the olive oil/balsamic vinegar dressing. Delicious!!
I hope you will give this recipe a try! If you do, I would love if you would leave a comment below and share a photo on Instagram. Tag @helloani.blog and hashtag it #helloani.
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