Fresh mozzarella and tomatoes layered and topped with a balsamic vinaigrette dressing.
Prep Time15 minutesmins
Total Time15 minutesmins
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: appetizer, basil, extra virgin olive oil, Italian Recipe, Mozzarella, Tomatoes, vinegar
Servings: 6servings
Calories: 250kcal
Author: Tom Papia
Cost: $$
Ingredients
16oz.Fresh Mozzarella Sliced
3Large tomatoes or 5 plum tomatoes
¼cupfresh basil sliced
2tbsp.balsamic vinegar
¼cupextra virgin olive oil
½tsp.salt
¼tsp.ground black pepper
¼tsp.dried oregano
Instructions
Before beginning the recipe remember to read the “Invent Your Recipe” section below for additional suggestions, recipe combinations, or ingredient alternatives.
Preparing the Caprese:
Begin by slicing the fresh mozzarella and tomatoes ¼ inch thick. Ensure there are equal pieces of mozzarella and tomato.
On a large plate, layer the mozzarella and tomatoes on top of each other forming a circle around the perimeter of the plate.
When layering, ensure half of the mozzarella and tomato is exposed to the next layer (see the below picture for a visual aid).
Layer any remaining mozzarella or tomatoes in the center of the circle.
Dressing the Caprese:
In a small bowl, add the balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, salt, ground black pepper, and oregano.
Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are incorporated to form a dressing. Next, with a spoon, drizzle the dressing over the caprese salad as desired.
Finish the salad with a sprinkle of fresh basil.
To Serve:
Serve the caprese salad as an appetizer of side dish with crusty Italian bread.
Notes
Invent Your Recipe:
This dish is a staple at parties with family and friends. This is the one appetizer that everyone askes me to bring. It is very appealing to the eyes and very simple to make. I have used roasted red peppers, roasted eggplants, or even roasted zucchini or squash before to make this recipe. Although those combinations taste great, there is just something to be said about preparing and serving the classic caprese salad with tomatoes.