How to Make Italian Tomato and Mozzarella Salad for Dinner

Italian Tomato and Mozzarella Salad, known as Caprese salad, is a simple yet flavorful dish that perfectly showcases fresh ingredients. This salad is ideal for dinner, especially during warm weather when tomatoes are at their peak flavor. In this article, you will learn how to make this delightful salad, complete with tips for enhancing its taste.

Ingredients You Will Need

• 4 ripe tomatoes (preferably heirloom or beefsteak)
• 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Balsamic vinegar (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients. Start by washing the tomatoes thoroughly under cold water. Then, slice each tomato into thick rounds, about half an inch in thickness. Make sure to cut the mozzarella into similar-sized slices to achieve balance in the salad.

Step 2: Layer the salad. On a large serving plate, alternate layers of tomato slices and mozzarella slices. You can slightly overlap each slice to create a beautiful presentation. Between each layer, add fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor.

Step 3: Drizzle with dressing. Once you have finished layering, drizzle extra virgin olive oil generously over the salad. If you like a bit of tang, add a splash of balsamic vinegar, but this is optional. For those who prefer a classic taste, the olive oil alone will elevate the dish.

Step 4: Season the salad. Sprinkle salt and freshly cracked black pepper over the top. Be generous! The seasoning enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and creaminess of the mozzarella.

Tips for the Best Italian Tomato and Mozzarella Salad

To make your salad stand out, consider the following tips:

• Use high-quality ingredients. Opt for the best fresh mozzarella you can find, preferably buffalo mozzarella for its rich flavor.
• Choose in-season tomatoes. The success of this salad relies heavily on the quality of the tomatoes, so make sure they're ripe and fresh.
• Experiment with herbs. While basil is traditional, you can add a hint of oregano or even arugula for a peppery twist.
• Serve it chilled. For a refreshing experience, consider chilling the salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Italian Tomato and Mozzarella Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, pasta dishes, or as a stand-alone appetizer. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious olive oil and juices that accumulate at the bottom of the plate.

Whether you are hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this Italian Tomato and Mozzarella Salad will surely impress your guests and delight your taste buds.