Insalata Caprese
Classic Caprese Salad
A quintessential Italian summer salad showcasing the vibrant flavors of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic basil, simply dressed with high-quality extra virgin olive oil and sea salt. This dish celebrates the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients.
🧂 Ingredients
- 250 g Fresh mozzarella di bufala (buffalo mozzarella)
- 4 medium Ripe, flavorful tomatoes
- 1 large bunch Fresh basil leaves
- 4 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
- to taste Flaky sea salt
- optional, to taste Freshly ground black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the ingredients: Gently drain the fresh mozzarella and pat it dry with paper towels. Slice the mozzarella into rounds about 1/4-inch thick. Wash and slice the ripe tomatoes into similar 1/4-inch thick rounds. Gently wash and pat dry the fresh basil leaves.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Arrange the salad: On a serving platter or individual plates, artfully arrange the sliced tomatoes and mozzarella, alternating them in an overlapping pattern. Aim for a visually appealing presentation.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Add the basil: Tuck fresh basil leaves between the slices of tomato and mozzarella. You can use whole leaves or gently tear larger ones. The aroma of the basil should be noticeable.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 4
Dress and season: Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil generously over the arranged tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and, if desired, freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 5
Serve immediately: For the best flavor and texture, serve the Insalata Caprese immediately while the ingredients are fresh and vibrant.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. Cold mozzarella can be tough and less flavorful.
- ✓Use the best quality extra virgin olive oil you can find; its fruity notes are a key component of this salad.
- ✓Select tomatoes that are in season and at their peak ripeness for the sweetest, most intense tomato flavor.
- ✓Don't over-salt; taste as you go. The salt should enhance, not overpower, the fresh flavors.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For an extra creamy twist, substitute fresh burrata for the mozzarella.
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a spoonful of pesto for added depth of flavor.
- Incorporate other fresh herbs like oregano or mint alongside the basil.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.