Caprese Salad
A classic Italian appetizer, Caprese Salad features fresh mozzarella, heirloom tomatoes, and basil leaves assembled simply with olive oil and salt. The dish showcases the natural textures and flavors of high-quality ingredients, resulting in a vibrant, colorful salad with a tender yet juicy bite.
Equipment
- Chef’s knife
- Large Serving Platter
Ingredients
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese preferably good quality, soft and creamy
- 3 large heirloom tomatoes ripe and flavorful, sliced into thick rounds
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves whole leaves, washed and dried
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil good quality for best flavor
- to taste sea salt preferably flaky and coarse
- to taste freshly ground black pepper for finishing
Instructions
- Slice the fresh mozzarella into thick, even rounds and arrange them on a large serving platter.
- Slice the heirloom tomatoes into similar thick rounds and place them alternately with the mozzarella slices in a visually appealing pattern.
- Tuck whole basil leaves between the slices, scattering some around the platter for a burst of green and aroma.
- Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the arranged ingredients, allowing it to seep gently into the layers.
- Sprinkle sea salt and freshly ground black pepper over the top, tasting and adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Serve immediately, allowing the flavors to meld and the textures to remain tender and juicy.
