Delicious Caprese Salad

When it comes to Italian cuisine, few dishes embody the finess of a simple caprese salad. Originating from the picturesque island of Capri that created the salad with the Italian flag in mind. Think vibrant colors and bold flavours with minimalistic ingredients.

Caprese salad is not a side dish; it celebrates Italian summers and the abundance of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and herbaceous basil. Whether you enjoy it as an appetizer or as an accompaniment to grilled meats, it will transport you to the Mediterranean region in the blink of an eye.

What do you need make Caprese Salad?

Tomatoes, Salt, Pepper, Balsamic Vinegar, Brown Sugar, Mozzarella Cheese.

Choose fresh and firm baby tomatoes. We’ve chosen baby tomatoes for this recipe because they are in season. You can use regular tomatoes for this dish; however, try to avoid overripe tomatoes, as they will have too much liquid. Firm tomatoes are recommended for a perfect Caprese salad.

The seasoning is minimalistic, with a light sprinkle of salt and pepper to season the salad. A balsamic vinegar reduction was drizzled on top to add a very subtle sweetness with a touch of acidity from the vinegar.

There are two types of mozzarella cheese: one that comes in a packet of brine and the other that is used primarily for pizza. The best mozzarella cheese for this recipe is the one that is pre-packaged with brine.

Instructions

Slice the tomatoes in half and drain the liquid from the mozzarella balls. Arrange them on a platter and decorate with basil leaves. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar reduction.

How do you make a balsamic vinegar reduction?

In this recipe, you will only require a drizzle of it. Add four tablespoons of balsamic vinegar to a small pan, set the temperature to medium-low heat, and add one teaspoon of brown sugar. Allow the concoction to bubble away for two minutes. Set aside and let it cool. Once it has cooled, it will thicken up in about five minutes.

What to Serve with Caprese salad?

Caprese salad can be eaten as a standalone meal with some garlic bread. It is an easy meal to put together if you’re busy and want to eat something in a rush. You can also take this salad to work as a convenient lunch-time meal. Other serving options include grilled steak or garlic shrimp. You can serve Pasta alongside this salad.

Think Crusty bread, such as baguette. You can also serve it in a sandwich. It also goes well with grilled chicken. If you are making a simple pasta dish, this salad can work well alongside it. If you really want a wholesome, healthy meal, you can grill some vegetables, such as eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers.

What kind of tomatoes should I use for Caprese salad?

The freshest tomato, of course. Choose a firm tomato. Heirloom tomatoes are best, but you can even use cherry tomatoes if you have them.

What type of mozzarella is best for Caprese salad?

Italian! 🙂 The best one is mozzarella di bufala, which is made from buffalo milk. If you can’t find that one, opt for a soft, creamy variety.

Can I prepare Caprese salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it before consumption. You can pre-slice the tomatoes and mozzarella and keep them separate. And when you are ready to serve the salad, you can easily arrange it.

What are some Variations of Caprese salad?

It varies, but there are countless options. You can add grilled peaches, avocado, and roasted bell peppers. You can also consider using burrata with a rich basil pesto as a topping. Another option is goat cheese, which deviates from the authentic recipe, but use what you have.

Caprese salad is one of the easiest salads to make at home. It is quick and convenient, and it is absolutely delicious. Whether you’re serving it to family and friends or eating it by yourself, this salad is one that you’ll be making over and over again.