Easy Insalata Caprese: An Italian Salad
Recreate the essence of Capri with my Easy Insalata Caprese Recipe. When I lived in Rome, we often made this salad, because the weather was hot, and this recipe was quick and refreshing. This quick, elegant Italian salad combines juicy heirloom tomatoes with creamy buffalo mozzarella, fresh basil, and a drizzle of rich balsamic. Perfect for a refreshing appetizer or a light meal, this classic dish brings a taste of Italy to your table in just a few minutes. Use the freshest ingredients you can find for a truly mouthwatering delicious salad. (as adapted from Eataly)
Servings: 6 servings
Cost: $16
Equipment
- Serrated knife tomatoes need a serrated knife to cut through their delicate skin smoothly
- Serving Platter large
Ingredients
- 1½ pound Organic Heirloom Tomatoes
- 1 pound Buffalo Mozzarella or Burrata can use other Fresh Mozzarella or Low Moisture Mozzarella
- 2 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar if possible, use DOP or IGP indications
- 6 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 small bunch Basil leaves removed
- Maldon Salt to taste
- Freshly Cracked Black Pepper to taste
Instructions
- With an extremely sharp serrated knife, cut the Heirloom Tomatoes into ¼-inch-thick slices, and transfer them to the serving platter in a floral pattern.
- Next, cut the mozzarella into ¼-inch-thick slices, and place each slice onto the center of a tomato slice.
- Combine the 2 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar, and 6 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil in a small bowl with a pinch of salt.
- Whisk the dressing ingredients together until the salt has dissolved into the liquid.
- Top each slice of tomato and mozzarella with a fresh green basil leaf.
- Drizzle the balsamic dressing over each slice of tomato, mozzarella, and basil.
- Sprinkle with Maldon salt.
- Grind Black Pepper if desired on the dish.
- Enjoy!
Notes
For the Perfect Insalata Caprese:
- Ingredient Quality: The success of Insalata Caprese hinges on the quality of its components. Opt for organic heirloom tomatoes for their superior flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, and buffalo mozzarella for its rich creaminess.
- Tomato Selection: Choose ripe yet firm Heirloom tomatoes to ensure they maintain their shape and provide a pleasant contrast to the soft mozzarella.
- Cheese Tips: Buffalo mozzarella is preferred for its texture and subtle flavors. If unavailable, burrata makes a creamier, but equally delicious, alternative. You can also use Low Moisture Mozzarella if you want a more chewy mozzarella experience.
- Balsamic Vinegar Choices: Select a high-quality balsamic vinegar. DOP balsamic is aged and flavorful, ideal for a more pronounced vinegar presence, whereas IGP offers a lighter touch suitable for not overpowering the fresh ingredients.
- Basil Usage: Always use fresh basil for its bright color and crisp flavor. Tear the leaves off the stems by hand to incorporate into the salad to avoid bruising and browning.
- Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning with fine sea salt and freshly cracked pepper if desired right before serving to enhance the natural flavors of the tomatoes and cheese.
- Serving Suggestions: Insalata Caprese should be served immediately after preparation. If prepping ahead, assemble without dressing and refrigerate, then drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar just before serving.
- Pairing Ideas: Complement the Caprese with crusty bread for dipping.
- Variations: For a twist, add avocado slices for creaminess, sprinkle capers for a salty punch, or mix in some arugula instead of basil for a peppery flair.
- Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but if necessary, store in the refrigerator covered for a few hours to prevent the tomatoes and basil from wilting.