Ah, summer—the season of sun-kissed afternoons, lazy picnics, and the irresistible call of fresh, vibrant produce. There’s nothing quite like the burst of flavor from heirloom tomatoes in a Caprese salad, their juicy sweetness mingling with creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil. I remember last summer, biting into one of these salads while sitting on my balcony, the sun setting and casting a warm glow—pure bliss.
Steps
- Begin by slicing the heirloom tomatoes into ¼ inch thick slices. Make sure to use a variety of colors for visual appeal.
- Cut the fresh mozzarella into slices of the same thickness as the tomatoes. This will allow for even layering.
- On a serving platter, alternate layers of tomato and mozzarella slices. Place fresh basil leaves between the layers or scatter them on top for added flavor.
- Drizzle the layered salad with olive oil and, if desired, a splash of balsamic vinegar or glaze. Finish by seasoning with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the freshness of the ingredients. If preparing in advance, store in the refrigerator and add the dressing just before serving.
Ingredients
- 2-3 heirloom tomatoes, varying in color
- 16 ounces of fresh mozzarella cheese, whole
- 6-8 fresh basil leaves
- Olive oil, to taste (extra virgin or regular)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Good quality balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze, to taste (optional)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1284 kcal | Carbohydrates: 18 g | Protein: 71.2 g | Fat: 105.6 g | Saturated Fat: 45.2 g | Cholesterol: 240 mg | Sodium: 2548 mg | Potassium: 1008 mg | Fiber: 4 g | Sugar: 10 g | Calcium: 1668 mg | Iron: 4 mg
FAQ
- What is a Caprese salad?
- A Caprese salad, also known as Insalata Caprese, is a classic Italian dish made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves. It’s typically seasoned with salt, pepper, and olive oil for a refreshing and simple flavor.
- Do heirloom tomatoes have a unique taste?
- Yes, heirloom tomatoes are known for their sweeter taste compared to other tomato varieties. Their flavor can vary by color, with yellow heirlooms being the mildest.
- Where can I purchase heirloom tomatoes?
- Heirloom tomatoes are typically available from late July to early fall. You can find them at farmers’ markets and supermarkets. They often have a rustic appearance with deep, craggy edges and come in a variety of colors, including purple, brown, and red.
- Can I use other types of tomatoes if I can’t find heirlooms?
- If heirloom tomatoes are unavailable, you can substitute them with any ripe tomato variety, such as beefsteak or Roma, to maintain the salad’s flavor and freshness.
- How can I prepare the Caprese salad in advance?
- You can assemble the salad by layering the tomatoes and mozzarella on a serving platter and refrigerating it until ready to serve. Just before serving, drizzle it with olive oil, balsamic vinegar (if desired), and sprinkle with salt and pepper. The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Tips
- Choose the Best Tomatoes: Opt for vibrant heirloom tomatoes with firm skin and no blemishes for the best flavor. If heirlooms aren’t available, use any ripe, high-quality tomatoes like beefsteak or Roma.
- Enhance Presentation: Use a variety of tomato colors and alternate them when layering with mozzarella for a visually appealing dish.
- Prepare Ahead: You can prep the salad by slicing and layering the ingredients in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and add olive oil, balsamic, salt, and pepper just before serving to maintain freshness.
- Experiment with Flavors: Consider swapping mozzarella for burrata or adding a twist with flavored salts or different herbs like thyme or tarragon to enhance the salad’s taste.
Equipment
