Fresh Caprese Salad Recipe with Basil Bliss
A light, refreshing salad featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, perfect for summer and ready in under 15 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- Ripe tomatoes, sliced thick (preferably heirloom or vine-ripened)
- Fresh mozzarella ball or burrata, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
- Extra virgin olive oil, high-quality
- Flaky sea salt (such as Maldon sea salt flakes)
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions
- Wash and dry the tomatoes thoroughly. Slice into 1/4-inch (about 6 mm) thick rounds.
- Drain any excess liquid from the mozzarella ball. Slice into rounds about 1/4 inch thick. Set aside on a paper towel if needed.
- On a serving platter, alternate tomato and mozzarella slices, slightly overlapping, creating a neat row or circle.
- Tear or place whole basil leaves between the tomato and mozzarella layers and scatter a few on top.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper evenly over the top.
- Drizzle a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil over the salad. Optionally, add a light drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes at room temperature before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
Use heirloom tomatoes for best flavor and texture. Let mozzarella and tomatoes come to room temperature before assembling. Add basil just before serving to avoid wilting. Blot watery tomatoes to prevent sogginess. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for best taste. Optional balsamic glaze adds a sweet tang.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 18
- Carbohydrates: 4
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 12
Keywords: Caprese salad, fresh mozzarella, basil, summer salad, easy salad, tomato salad, Italian salad, fresh ingredients