Caprese salad is a classic Italian dish that highlights fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil. Here's a simple step-by-step guide to making a delicious Caprese salad:
Ingredients:
Fresh tomatoes (ripe and preferably different colors for visual appeal)
Fresh mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil leaves
Extra virgin olive oil
Balsamic glaze (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Gather the Ingredients:
Make sure you have all the fresh ingredients on hand.
Slice the Tomatoes:
Wash and dry the tomatoes.
Using a sharp knife, slice the tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
Slice the Mozzarella:
Similarly, slice the fresh mozzarella into rounds of about the same thickness as the tomatoes.
Arrange Tomatoes and Mozzarella:
On a serving platter, alternate and overlap the tomato and mozzarella slices. This creates a visually appealing pattern.
Add Fresh Basil:
Wash the fresh basil leaves and tuck them in between the tomato and mozzarella slices.
Drizzle with Olive Oil:
Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the tomato and mozzarella slices. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the dish's authenticity.
Season with Salt and Pepper:
Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper over the salad to taste.
Optional: Balsamic Glaze:
If you like, you can add a balsamic glaze for extra flavor. Drizzle it over the salad in a zig-zag pattern.
Serve:
Serve the Caprese salad immediately, while the ingredients are fresh and flavorful.
Additional Tips:
Freshness is Key: Use the freshest ingredients possible for the best flavor.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Let the tomatoes and mozzarella come to room temperature before serving for enhanced flavor.
Customize: Feel free to customize the salad with additional ingredients like pine nuts or a sprinkle of dried oregano.
Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Caprese salad!
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