Introduction
Sun‑warmed tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil come together in minutes, finished with a glossy balsamic drizzle – this classic Caprese is a burst of Italian summer on any Mother’s Day table or picnic blanket.
The Origins of Caprese Salad
Born on the Isle of Capri in the 1920s, Ensalata Caprese mirrored the Italian flag’s colors – red, white, and green – celebrating national pride. Its enduring appeal lies in simplicity: pristine ingredients needing little more than olive oil and salt.
Unique Ingredients That Shine
Heirloom tomatoes provide varying hues and rich flavor. Fresh buffalo mozzarella offers milky softness. Extra‑virgin olive oil adds peppery depth, while aged balsamic reduction lends a sweet tang that ties everything together.
Cooking Techniques That Make a Difference
Salting tomatoes briefly draws out juices, concentrating sweetness. Layering alternating slices ensures balanced bites. A final chiffonade of basil just before serving preserves the bright aroma.
Easy Caprese Salad with Fresh Basil and Balsamic Drizzle
Description
Ten‑minute Caprese highlights peak‑season produce with minimal fuss — perfect for al fresco lunches, barbeques, or elegant starters.
Ingredients for Easy Caprese Salad with Fresh Basil and Balsamic Drizzle
Instructions
Preparation of Ingredients
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Gather Your Ingredients
Lay out sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, olive oil, balsamic, salt, and pepper.
Preparing all components allows quick assembly.
Layer the Salad
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Alternate & Arrange
On a platter, alternate tomato and mozzarella slices in overlapping pattern.
Overlapping ensures each forkful holds both elements.
Season Tomatoes
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Salt & Rest
Sprinkle flaky salt over tomatoes; let sit 2 minutes to draw juices.
Brief rest concentrates tomato flavor without sogginess.
Add Basil
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Scatter Leaves
Tuck torn basil between layers or sprinkle chiffonade on top.
Tear, don’t cut, to avoid bruising and dark edges.
Finish with Dressings
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Drizzle Oils
Drizzle olive oil evenly, followed by thin zigzags of balsamic reduction. Grind pepper over top if using.
Apply balsamic last for decorative sheen.
Serving the Dish
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Serve Immediately
Present salad at room temperature within 10 minutes of assembly.
Cold mozzarella mutes flavor—room temp is key.
Note
- Use colorful tomato varieties for visual appeal and nuanced taste.
- If mozzarella releases excess whey, blot slices with paper towel before plating.
- For added protein, layer in prosciutto ribbons between tomatoes.
- Leftover balsamic drizzle brightens roasted veggies or grilled peaches.
