Description
Caprese Salad is a fresh, colorful, and satisfying Italian dish that combines juicy ripe tomatoes, creamy plant-based mozzarella, and vibrant fresh basil leaves. Enhanced with extra virgin olive oil and a natural balsamic reduction, this simple recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Ripe tomatoes – 3 medium, sliced about 0.5 cm thick
- Mozzarella (plant-based) – 200 grams, sliced to match tomatoes
- Fresh basil leaves – 1 cup, whole
- Extra virgin olive oil (natural) – 2 tablespoons
- Balsamic reduction (natural) – 1 tablespoon
- Sea salt – to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper – to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the tomatoes: Wash and dry the ripe tomatoes thoroughly. Slice them evenly about half a centimeter thick to maintain juiciness and balance in each bite.
- Slice the mozzarella (plant-based): Cut the plant-based mozzarella into slices similar in size to the tomato slices to ensure perfect pairing in the salad layers.
- Layer the ingredients: On a serving plate or board, arrange tomato and mozzarella slices alternately in a circular or linear pattern, slightly overlapping each piece for an attractive presentation.
- Add fresh basil: Insert whole basil leaves generously between the tomato and mozzarella layers or scatter them on top to bring a fresh herbal aroma.
- Dress the salad: Evenly drizzle extra virgin olive oil (natural) over the layered ingredients. Add a few drops of balsamic reduction (natural) for a tangy-sweet finish. Season lightly with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients by taking tomatoes and mozzarella (plant-based) out of the fridge prior to assembling to enhance flavors.
- Choose heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes for the best natural sweetness and texture.
- Slice tomatoes and mozzarella evenly for balanced bites.
- Make the balsamic reduction fresh by simmering grape juice with a natural gelling agent until syrupy.
- Alternate colors and textures for a visually appealing salad presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (for balsamic reduction)
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Caprese Salad, plant-based mozzarella, vegan appetizer, Italian salad, fresh basil, tomato salad
