Italian Caprese Salad (Tomato, Mozzarella, and Basil Salad)
This Italian Caprese Salad features ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil, all drizzled with extra virgin olive oil for a refreshing, simple, and elegant dish. Perfect as a starter, side, or light meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3 large ripe tomatoes (about 450 g / 1 lb), sliced
- 250 g (9 oz) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 20–25 fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Wash and slice the tomatoes into 1/4-inch rounds.
- Slice the mozzarella into rounds of similar thickness.
- On a serving platter, alternate tomato and mozzarella slices in a circular or row pattern.
- Tuck whole basil leaves between the slices.
- Drizzle olive oil evenly over the salad.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- If desired, drizzle with balsamic glaze.
- Serve immediately at room temperature for best flavor.
Notes
- Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for best taste.
- Fresh mozzarella is essential for authentic texture.
- Assemble just before serving to preserve freshness.
- Do not refrigerate for long, as basil can wilt and tomatoes lose flavor.
- Pairs well with crusty bread or grilled meats.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
